Line-ups confirmed as Villans look to add to Magpies woes amid Isak turmoil in Premier League opener
Aston Villa and Newcastle have confirmed their starting XIs for their tantalising Premier League opener on Saturday lunchtime.
Both sides have been in similar positions battling for Europe in recent seasons and as a result this fixture has thrown up some crackers over the years.
Unai Emery’s men ran out 4-1 winners in this game at Villa Park last season but it was the Magpies who eventually pipped Villa to Champions League qualification last term, while the Geordies’ 5-1 victory on the opening day two years ago at St James’ Park will still be fresh in both teams’ memories.
Newcastle also begin the season under the backdrop of plenty of turmoil as speculation over star striker Alexander Isak’s future continues. The talismanic forward won’t be involved in the West Midlands as he tries to force a move away.
Scroll down for the confirmed squads and line-ups for the 12:30pm kick-off at Villa Park.
