Aston Villa have been flying on all fronts since their delayed start to the season.
That staggered start might have helped Dean Smith’s side, but whatever the reason, they’re getting the balance right between defence and attack right now.
That’s the case whether Smith plays his strongest side in the league or rotates for the EFL Cup.
Villa have a real chance to progress in the competition they made the final of last season when they host Stoke tonight – but how will Smith line up?
Jed Steer looks to be Smith’s nailed-on backup goalkeeper and will expect to play here.
The experienced Ahmed Elmohamady played out of position at centre half against Bristol City last week and the £25,000-a-week man could continue there tonight.
Kortney Hause looks sure to start alongside him, with Neil Taylor and Frederic Guilbert deputising at full back.
Jacob Ramsey, who made his Premier League debut on Monday and has a ‘bright future’ according to academy manager Sean Kimberley, should start in midfield.
Marvelous Nakamba seems set to anchor midfield, with Henri Lansbury rounding off the midfield.
Bertrand Traore caught the eye with a debut goal at Ashton Gate and will likely play on the right once more here.
Keinan Davis can lead the line, with Anwar El Ghazi likeliest to operate from the left.
It’s a big night for Villa’s backup crop and an important one for Smith as he looks to oversee another impressive run deep into the EFL Cup.
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