Martin O’Neill is hoping his Aston Villa can secure qualification to the UEFA Cup knockout phase in tonight’s game against Slovakian club MSK Zilina.
Villa only require a point after winning both of their first two group games, and despite not playing on matchday 3 are sat at the top of group F.
The Midlands side are one of three former European Champions in their group and can afford to rest players this evening against Zilina, as the six points that they have already accumilated mean that if Slavia Prague do not win this evening when hosting Hamburg they are through regardless of the score at Villa Park.
O’Neill’s men have been made second favourite’s to win the tournament outright by some bookmakers, although this is before the Champions League failures drop into the competition, but the tag of favourite has not helped the claret and blues this year after falling short when built up to win a game, especially in the league so far.
The home team will make a number of changes from the regular side that finds them in fifth place in the Premier League, Brad Guzan look set to continue in goal from Villa’s last European outing, where he was arguably man-of-the-match.
Nicky Shorey has the flu so looks like he will miss his chance to prove his worth, Luke Young or Gareth Barry may slot into left back. If Young does swap sides, Carlos Cuellar is the likely choice for the right. Zat Knight and Curtis Davies are in the frame to form a central defensive partnership as Captain Martin Laursen might be rested.
Fringe midfielders Mustafa Salifou, Craig Gardner and Isiah Osbourne will hope to see action tonight, with Steve Sidwell still looking for more games. Stan Petrov and Nigel Reo-Coker should also be available, with wide men Ashley Young and James Milner too.
Martin O’Neill has confirmed Marlon Harewood will start, after missing the last round due to becoming a father, the boss has also stated that 17-year-old Nathan Delfouneso will play some part, whether it is a starting or substitute role is not known yet. John Carew is out, and Gabby Agbonlahor is to be rested.
Very little is known about Zilina, but since the formation of the country of Slovakia, MŠK Žilina have proved to be one of the most successful teams winning four league titles in the past seven years.
Despite their success, Zilina have lost the players that helped them get it. The Russian and German leagues keep close eyes on such teams, plundering them for cheap talent.
Dušan Perniš is a reliable keeper, and if played will be difficult to beat and a key factor for Zilina.
Aston Villa – MSK Zilina
UEFA Cup, Group F
Kick off 19.45
