Regis Le Bris said that Dan Ballard was fully fit again and back in contention for today’s game at Villa Park, but also said he wouldn’t be rushed back into the action, suggesting Luke O’Nien could well keep his place. Elsewhere in the team, the only question mark could be Chris Rigg, however I do think he could keep his place too – so I’m predicting we’ll go into this one unchanged from the team that beat Spuds last time out.
Robin Roefs showed just what he brings to the table last week on his return – he’s just at a different level and he’ll play in goal today.
Defence: Nordi Mukiele, Luke O’Nien, Omar Alderete, Reinildo
Trai Hume’s exclusion was a bit of a surprise last weekend, but Mukiele’s our best right back and offers a lot going forward, so that made sense. O’Nien was lucky not to give away a penalty last week but otherwise did well. If I was picking the team though I’d be bringing Ballard straight back in as he’s our best centre back – however Le Bris’s comments suggest Luke will start again today alongside Alderete, with Reinildo at left back.
Midfield: Chris Rigg, Granit Xhaka, Habib Diarra, Noah Sadiki, Enzo Le Fee
Habib Diarra had his best game for us last weekend, and will keep his place, possibly in an unchanged midfield. Rigg’s presence allows Mukiele space to overlap, while Xhaka and Sadiki are key in terms of keeping things structured. Le Fee just has to play, and will operate from the left, drifting in to create space for Reinildo to overlap, just as Rigg does on the other side for Mukiele.
Brobbey turned in an excellent display against Spurs, and will be looking to do the same again today. He’ll have to be careful though, as the spectacularly pathetic overreaction from Spurs fans will have raised referees’ attentions, so he’ll be scrutinised today.