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Training sessions have concluded, the kits are fresh, and the managers have addressed their teams. The moment of truth is approaching.
Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest have wrapped up their preparations for the Europa League semi-final second leg at Villa Park, scheduled for Thursday at 20:00 BST.
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Both teams are aiming for a spot in a major European final for the first time in over four decades, making this a significant evening in the Midlands regardless of the outcome.
In anticipation of this clash, both managers opted to rest several key players during the Premier League matches last weekend. Unai Emery made seven adjustments against Tottenham, while Vitor Pereira implemented eight changes against Chelsea.
The indications are that both managers will field their strongest lineups, although injury concerns may factor into their final decisions.
During Emery’s press conference, he confirmed that Amadou Onana will miss the match due to a calf injury sustained in the first leg last week. Conversely, John McGinn is available for selection after recovering from hamstring tightness.
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In Pereira’s session with the media, he indicated that a late decision would be made regarding Morgan Gibbs-White, who suffered a head injury that required stitches in the previous match. However, Zach Abbott has been cleared to play after a separate head injury. The potential return of Murillo from a hamstring issue is also being monitored.
So, now that you’re aware of the team updates, who do you believe should be the starting players for what could potentially be your club’s most important match of the season?