It is unclear whether South American duo Emi Martinez or Douglas Luiz will be able to play any part given they will be with their countries until the early hours of Friday. Both could conceivably arrive back in England late on Friday, so Martinez could yet feature but it would be a surprise for Luiz to do so, even if he continues to play no part for Brazil. Morgan Sanson's return to training could be a timely boost but this may well come to soon for both he and Leon Bailey, while Bertrand Traore picked up an injury on international duty. Villa looked limp in their 3-5-2 formation at Tottenham so it will be interesting to see if Dean Smith reverts to a back four, particularly with the need to find room for Emi Buendia in mind. Ruben Neves is a doubt ahead of the game due to a knock but should be fit to retain his place following the international break. Trincao has contracted Coronavirus so will miss this game, so there could be a return to the side for former Villa man Adama Traore, though Daniel Podence is also an option. Elsewhere the team is likely to remain unchanged from the side that beat Newcastle, with Raul Jimenez and Hwang Hee-Chan forming an encouraging partnership in that game.