Nuno Santo to make 2 changes – Strongest 3-4-3 Wolves lineup to face Aston Villa
EFL Championship leaders Wolverhampton Wanderers will go head to head against fellow promotion hopefuls Aston Villa at the Villa Park on Saturday.
Wolves ended a three-game winless run when they defeated Leeds United 3-0 at Elland Road during the midweek and manager Nuno Espirito Santo will be hoping to carry the momentum from the win into the weekend’s encounter against Steve Bruce’s men.
Team News
Midfield mainstay Ruben Neves will be set to return after serving his two-match suspension. There are no other injury or suspension concerns for the manager going into the big game on Saturday.
Here’s how the Wolves might take the field at the Villa Park on Saturday;
Manager: Nuno Espirito Santo
Formation: 3-4-3
John Ruddy (GK)
The former Norwich City man has been brilliant between the sticks for Wolves since his summer move. A definite starter between the sticks.
Ryan Bennett (CB)
The 28-year old Englishman was left out of the starting XI for the midweek game. Should be back in place of Danny Batth.
Conor Coady (CB)
The former Liverpool man has established himself as an irremovable part of this Wolves’ unit. A sure-shot starter for Saturday’s game.
Willy Boly (CB)
The Portuguese defender was absolutely majestic in the win over Leeds, netting a goal as well. Will complete the three-man defence for the leaders.
Matt Doherty (RWB)
The 26-year old Irishman is the preferred option for the wing-back slot on the right side and that is unlikely to change on Saturday.
Ruben Neves (CM)
The club-record signing will be eligible for selection after missing out on the last two games due to suspension. Will return to the side in place of midweek goalscorer Romain Saiss.
Alfred N’Diaye (CM)
The 29-year old midfielder was Wolves’ best player against Leeds in the midweek win. Will partner up with Neves in the middle of the park.
Barry Douglas (LWB)
The left wing-back slot will be taken up by Scotsman Barry Douglas. Has scored four and assisted 11 goals in 28 Championship outings this term and will be hoping to add to his tally on Saturday.
Ivan Cavaleiro (RW)
Portuguese attacker Ivan Cavaleiro will once again start out on the right-side of the attacking trio for the Championship leaders.
Leo Bonatini (ST)
The club’s leading goalscorer for the season with 12 goals, Leo Bonatini is expected to lead the line for Wolves against the Villans.
Diogo Jota (LW)
The on-loan Atletico Madrid man is an important player for Santo’s side and will complete the attacking trident, starting out on the left flank.