Aston Villa return to Premier League action today as they welcome Everton to the Midlands to kickstart their home campaign.

Villains boss Steven Gerrard will be hoping to get his side performing better than last weekend, as they ran out a 2-0 defeat to newly promoted AFC Bournemouth.

Backed in the transfer market with no less than five summer signings, pressure will build on the English boss should he start this season off poorly. Their opening day result may reflect in his team selection to face the toffees.

Here’s the XI we’re predicting for today’s encounter…

Aston Villa Lineup vs Everton

In goal, Emiliano Martinez is a certainty to continue in between the sticks, looking to continue his fine form from last season.

Similarly, the back four almost names itself, with Matty Cash and Lucas Digne nailed on to start. Diego Carlos will likely partner Ezri Konsa once more, earning his home debut as Tyrone Mings continues his spell on the sidelines following the stripping of his captaincy as he continues to nurse his injury.

Gerrard will likely continue with his 4-2-3-1 system, allowing his front four to devastate defences with the defensive security of John McGinn and Boubacar Kamara, who made his debut last week and will also be welcomed to the Villa support.

Jacob Ramsey will therefore continue just in front of them and will be given the majority of the transitional burden, as he looks to convert safe play in midfield to chances up front.

It is up front where there may be a change, however, after Ollie Watkins’ surprise omission from the starting squad last week led reports to emerge that the £75k-per-week star was feuding with the manager.

Danny Ings will likely start up front and will be flanked by the South American flair of Emi Buendia and Phillipe Coutinho, forming a scary front three to take on the three centre-backs of Everton.

Predicted Villa XI (4-2-3-1): Martinez, Cash, Konsa, Carlos, Digne, McGinn, Kamara, Ramsey, Buendia, Coutinho, Ings