Aston Villa travel to Old Trafford on Sunday, hoping to strengthen their push for a Champions League place next season against Manchester United.
Villa want to complete their first league double over Michael Carrick’s side since the 1954/55 campaign.
Both sides enter the clash level on 51 points in the race for the top four, although the hosts currently sit above Villa on goal difference.
With just nine matches remaining, the stakes are high for both teams, setting up a fascinating match-up.
Match preview
Ollie Watkins scored the winner in a 1-0 Europa League victory over Lille on Thursday, giving Villa an advantage in the last-16 tie.
However, Villa have been dire domestically. They have won just three of their last 11 league matches and are battling to hold onto a Champions League spot.
Injuries in midfield have played a key role in that downturn.
The absence of Youri Tielemans and Boubacar Kamara has disrupted their balance, although captain John McGinn returned from injury during the midweek win in France.
Tee hosts will be determined to respond after a late 2-1 defeat at Newcastle United ended their impressive run under Carrick.
The English tactician has steadied the ship since returning to the dugout, losing just once in the league since his appointment.
Their home has been a particular stronghold. They have won all five of their league home matches since he took over.
Match stats
- Man United have lost just two of their last 37 home league games against Villa (W28, D7).
- Carrick has won all five of his league home games since he took charge.
- Man Utd have scored in their last 17 league matches.
- Villa have won only three of their last 11 league games.
Aston Villa team news
Emery faces several selection dilemmas after Thursday’s European fixture.
Midfield remains stretched, with Kamara ruled out for the season and Tielemans still sidelined with injury.
‘Super‘ McGinn could return to the starting XI after making his comeback appearance in midweek, providing greater support behind Villa’s attacking players.
At the back, Emery will assess the fitness of right-back Matty Cash ahead of kick-off.
Aston Villa predicted XI (4-2-3-1)
Emiliano Martinez; Matty Cash, Ezri Konsa, Pau Torres, Lucas Digne; John McGinn, Douglas Luiz; Leon Bailey, Morgan Rogers, Moussa Diaby; Ollie Watkins.
