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da fazobetai： Aston Villa may have lost on the final weekend of normal Championship action but the club still go into the play-off clash against West Brom with plenty of confidence.
Dean Smith’s men have been phenomenal in recent months and arguably have the greatest momentum going into their semi-final clash this weekend.
However, the omens aren’t too good for the Villans if recent history is anything to by. The Baggies haven’t lost to their Midlands rivals this season and, as a result, could be marginal favourites.
So how do Villa go about beating them? Starting Andre Green would be a good start.
Green has to play
Villa’s midfield essentially picks itself at the moment but there are still decisions for Smith to make in wide areas. Anwar El Ghazi had his red card rescinded from the encounter with Leeds and will be available after being rested against Norwich last weekend.
He’ll likely come back into the starting XI but if the Villa boss is still trying to decide between Albert Adomah and Green, then the latter simply has to play.
The 20-year-old may not have the best numbers in terms of goals and assists after returning from a loan spell with Portsmouth, but his pace can give West Brom major problems.
One of Albion’s massive weaknesses this season has been against a side with pace. Versus Derby they were brushed aside and, given the Baggies’ defensive frailties at times this season, Green can frighten the life out of some of their defenders.
The winger’s recent display against Leeds was evidence of the threat he can bring. He was rather harshly withdrawn in the second half despite causing Stuart Dallas numerous issues. In that game, he completed three dribbles.
With West Brom’s wing-backs pushing on, there could easily be space in behind for the likes of Green to exploit. Villa have more creative players in their side but his influence in these matches could be just as important.