Aston Villa predicted XI vs Fenerbahce as Unai Emery faces defensive injury crisis

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery faces several selection problems ahead of Wednesday's Champions League clash with Fenerbahce, with both recognised left-backs unavailable through injury.

Villa are looking to recover from a disappointing 2-2 Premier League draw against Brentford, while summer signing Leon Goretzka could make his long-awaited debut at Villa Park.

Villa enter Wednesday's European encounter sitting 16th in the Premier League, having won just one of their opening six matches.

Their preparations have been complicated by injuries to Matteo Ruggeri and Ian Maatsen, leaving Emery without either of his recognised left-backs.

George Hemmings and Modou Keba Cisse are also unavailable, while Brian Madjo and Taylor Harwood-Bellis were omitted from Villa's Champions League squad.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka is expected to switch to left-back after filling the position during the second half against Brentford.

Matty Cash should retain his place on the right, with Victor Lindelof potentially replacing Tyrone Mings alongside Pau Torres in central defence.

Zion Suzuki is expected to start in goal as Villa attempt to contain a Fenerbahce attack featuring Romelu Lukaku and Vedat Muriqi.

Emery is expected to continue using his preferred 4-2-3-1 formation, with Joao Gomes and Boubacar Kamara forming the midfield partnership.

Amadou Onana remains unavailable through injury, while Goretzka is unlikely to be rushed into the starting eleven following his recovery from a knee problem.

However, the German midfielder has been included in the matchday squad and could make his Aston Villa debut from the bench.

Further forward, captain John McGinn is expected to operate on the right, with Johan Manzambi providing attacking width on the opposite flank.

Emi Buendia should occupy the number ten position behind Nicolas Jackson, who has scored three goals this season, including one against Brentford.

Aston Villa predicted XI (4-2-3-1):

Suzuki; Cash, Lindelof, Torres, Wan-Bissaka; Joao Gomes, Kamara; McGinn, Buendia, Manzambi; Jackson.

Aston Villa face Fenerbahce at Villa Park on Wednesday, 14 October, hoping to improve their recent form and secure a much-needed home victory. Emery will need to manage his defensive absences while deciding whether Goretzka is ready for his first appearance.