Pau Torres has suggested Lille have a “really good” player who could pose a real threat to Aston Villa this evening.
Unai Emery’s men booked their spot in the Conference League’s last eight with an emphatic 4-0 win over Ajax in the second leg of their round of 16 tie.
Villa’s Premier League form has been patchy of late, with a frustrating 3-3 draw with Brentford damaging their top-four ambitions.
The Conference League could come as a welcome distraction ahead of what promises to be a busy end to the season.
Lille travel to Villa Park, currently occupying fourth spot in Ligue 1 and boasting one or two eye-catching names within their ranks.
Aston Villa star Pau Torres warns of powerful Jonathan David threat
Speaking ahead of Thursday’s clash, Torres has warned his side of the threat of Jonathan David.
The 24-year-old Canadian has been linked with some of Europe’s biggest clubs and has 16 league goals to his name this season.
“He has power, speed, he’s a really good player,” said Torres [Express and Star].
“We need to keep focused on every player. We need to keep working as a team and control every player.”
Former Premier League wonderkid could also face Aston Villa this evening
Former Premier League gem Angel Gomes could also face Aston Villa this evening. The 23-year-old signed for the French club after leaving Manchester United in the summer.
Thus far, he’s managed six assists and seems to be enjoying life under Paulo Fonesca. Gomes missed Lille’s most recent win over Marseille but could feature in the West Midlands at some point.
Birmingham Live’s John Townley said: “Paulo Fonseca confirms Angel Gomes has made strong progress from a hamstring injury and has travelled to Birmingham with his Lille teammates. The 23yo won’t start after only participating in one training session this week.”
With Lille enjoying an impressive season under the Portuguese coach, Thursday’s clash promises to be a step up from the Ajax test. Emery will be desperate to take a lead to northern France next week.
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