OPINION
Aston Villa will face a terrific Derby County side when they travel to Pride Park on Saturday, as Dean Smith’s side look to build on their victory over Bolton Wanderers last time out.
The Villans weren’t perfect against the Trotters, but there were definite signs of progression that they will be looking to bring into the Derby clash.
The Rams will undoubtedly be the favourites playing in front of their home fans, and so Smith needs to get his team selection spot on.
Two key changes are required from the Villa boss, with wingers Albert Adomah and Jonathan Kodjia dropping out to be replaced by Mile Jedinak and Yannick Bolasie.
Ørjan Nyland has failed to impress since arriving at Villa Park but has no real competition for his starting spot, meaning that he should get the start again here. Alan Hutton and Neil Taylor are nailed down as the two starting full backs and will be required to supply the width in a 4-3-2-1 formation.
Jedinak should come in for Adomah. The former Crystal Palace man will be needed to supply defensive solidity against Frank Lampard’s team, and he should be partnered by Conor Hourihane and John McGinn in central midfield.
Further forward, Jack Grealish is in fine fettle for the Villans and it would be a crime for Smith to drop him at this stage. Bolasie made a huge impact off the bench against Bolton and deserves to come in for the misfiring Kodjia.
Tammy Abraham has four goals in 10 games for the club this season and will be looking to build on that against the Rams; he leads the line.
If Smith selects the XI below, Villa can rip Derby to shreds.
