One of LOSC Lille’s star men could return to Paulo Fonseca’s plans ahead of their UEFA Conference League quarter-final against Aston Villa.
Unai Emery’s attention has shifted to the European stage after Saturday’s eventful 3-3 draw with Brentford.
The Conference League is Villa’s only chance of silverware this season, and many will hope for a repeat of what West Ham United managed last season.
Emery has rotated of late and could potentially look to alter his lineup once more on Thursday evening.
One player who will almost certainly start is Ollie Watkins. The 28-year-old netted his 17th and 18th Premier League goals of the season against Brentford and appears to have recovered from his minor injury setback.
As for the visitors, they currently sit fourth in Ligue 1, 14 points adrift of leaders PSG.
Current Ligue 1 table
Lille are coming off two domestic wins and could be boosted by the return to fitness of a former Premier League wonderkid.
Who could return for LOSC Lille against Aston Villa on Thursday?
Fonesca’s side are coming off of an impressive 3-1 win over Marseille and could be boosted by the return of Angel Gomes.
The 23-year-old signed for the Ligue 1 club in the summer after leaving Manchester United. According to Get Football News France, the midfielder has made a “rapid” return from a hamstring injury which saw him miss Friday’s victory.
Gomes came through the ranks at Old Trafford with his “brilliant” performances for England’s youth teams catching the eye.
However, with opportunities scarce at Old Trafford, the Englishman headed to Lille. Thus far, he’s amassed six assists in 23 starts, with his most recent coming during the 1-1 draw with Brest on March 17.
Should Unai Emery ring the changes against Lille?
It’s a delicate balancing act for Emery on Thursday evening. The Villa boss must ensure he fields a strong side but also manages the fitness of his star players.
The likes of Leon Bailey have been rotated of late, and something similar could occur against the Ligue 1 outfit. Any chance of silverware must be taken seriously, and the Spaniard will be eager to take a commanding lead across the channel next week.
Villa’s home form has been the cornerstone of their success this season, and that cannot change on Thursday against what will be stubborn opposition.
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