Brighton & Hove Albion vs Aston Villa: Probable lineups, team news and prediction

Brighton & Hove Albion are preparing to host Aston Villa in a pivotal Premier League match at the Amex Stadium. The two teams have experienced contrasting fortunes this season, setting the stage for a captivating encounter.

Team news

The Seagulls' preparations have been hampered by a wave of injuries, with Adam Lallana being the most recent player to join the growing list of absentees.

Brighton will be without James Milner, Tariq Lamptey, Pervis Estupinan, Evan Ferguson, Jack Hinshelwood, Solly March, Jan Paul van Hecke, and Kauro Mitoma. This injury crisis has undoubtedly played a role in Brighton's recent struggles, as they have slipped to 12th place in the league table.

In contrast, Aston Villa have been in fine form and are targeting a top-four finish. The Villans could receive a boost with the potential return of goalkeeper Emi Martinez from a hamstring injury.

Alex Moreno and Youri Tielemans are also being evaluated, while Nicolo Zaniolo made his comeback as a substitute in the Europa Conference League against Olympiacos.

Brighton vs Aston Villa: Probable lineups

Brighton are likely to deploy a formation that balances defensive stability with attacking intent. The expected starting XI could feature Verbruggen in goal; a back four of Veltman, Dunk, Igor, and Barco; a midfield pairing of Gilmour and Gross, supported by Adingra, Buonanotte, and Pedro; with Welbeck spearheading the attack as the sole striker.

Aston Villa may opt for a formation that emphasises midfield control and attacking creativity. The probable line-up could include Olsen in goal; a defensive quartet of Konsa, Carlos, Torres, and Digne; McGinn and Luiz anchoring the midfield, flanked by Bailey and Zaniolo, with Rogers supporting Watkins upfront.

Prediction and key players

Considering the current form and circumstances of both teams, along with the historical head-to-head record where Aston Villa has had the upper hand in recent meetings, the prediction for this match is a 1-2 victory for Aston Villa. Villa's attacking prowess and Brighton's injury troubles could be the deciding factors in this clash.

For Brighton, the performance of Danny Welbeck will be pivotal. As an experienced striker, his ability to find spaces and convert opportunities will be crucial for Brighton's chances of finding the back of the net.

Ollie Watkins, who has an impressive record against Brighton, will be the key man for the visitors. His pace, movement, and clinical finishing could cause significant problems for Brighton's defence.

This match takes place against the backdrop of contrasting fortunes. Brighton, grappling with injuries and a dip in form, faces a formidable challenge against an Aston Villa side brimming with confidence and on the verge of Champions League qualification.

While the Seagulls will be determined to turn their fortunes around, Villa's quality and depth, coupled with their recent dominance in this fixture, make them the favourites to secure all three points.