#player-selection

#player-selection

Heimir Hallgrimsson faced a few dilemmas in terms of team selection and admitted on the eve of the match that some training ground performances had changed his thinking. He has recalled Szmodics to the side, with the Ipswich player getting the nod ahead of his club mate Chiedozie Ogbene, who has gone on loan to Sheffield United. Ferguson was always expected to start but there was a question mark around the attacking formation with Azaz given the nod.

Any thoughts on why a club in need of a striker would fork out 66 million quid for one (Sesko) but choose not to play him? Is he injured? They need goals. To be completely honest, my guess is as good as yours! I don't think he's injured. At least, nothing has been said about any kind of injury. He should be fully match fit considering he had a full pre-season with RB Leipzig before moving to Manchester.

"Leadership will also be a key factor in who GM Pascal Daoust selects in the draft. Last season, all seven of his picks were former captains."

South Africa's lineup sees all-rounder Wiaan Mulder return to first drop, while Lungi Ngidi strengthens the pace attack alongside Rabada and Jansen.

Serge Gnabry's call-up to the German national team for the Nations League Final Four raises questions due to his lackluster season, yet it aims to boost his confidence.

Unai Emery's approach to lineup decisions for Aston Villa can vary greatly, sometimes delivering news the night before or moments before departure, making consistency elusive.