The Seagulls are flying high in the Premier League in third place with five wins from their first six matches. Key men are however struggling with injuries and De Zerbi will likely make a host of changes to the team that lost 1-0 at Chelsea on Wednesday night in the Carabao Cup. De Zerbi defended his selection, with a number of first-team regulars having been rested following Sunday’s win over Bournemouth.
“We played good enough to win the game but to win you have to score,” he said. “We didn’t score in the first half when we had many chances to score. Not difficult chances. We were not able to score, then you keep the game open. I am sorry, I’m disappointed for the result because I want to compete in four competitions. I think the first XI was enough to win the game.
“We have to adapt, we have to improve, The young players have to progress, but quickly, because in football we don’t have time. I don’t want to make any excuses. It was the right first XI to win the game.”
Here’s a look at Albion’s walking wounded ahead of the trip to Villa Park…
1. Julio Enciso – out:
The Paraguay playmaker remains absent with a knee injury sustained during the win at Wolves earlier this season. Has been pictured back in the gym but is expected to be out for another three months. Photo: Clive Mason
2. Pascal Gross – out:
The Germany international missed the last two matches against Bournemouth and then Chelsea with a muscular injury. He will hope to be back to face Marseille in the Europa League next Thursday. Photo: Alex Pantling
3. James Milner – out:
The former Liverpool man is also suffering with a muscular injury. It is not thought to be too serious but Aston Villa will likely arrive too soon. Marseille could be a possibility. Photo: Mike Hewitt
4. Jakub Moder – out:
The Poland international midfielder is making some encouraging progress following a serious ACL injury that has kept him out for more than a year. De Zerbi is keen to have him available but Villa is too soon. Photo: Warren Little