The Seagulls are currently third in the Premier League having won five from their first six fixtures. They arrive however having won just once in their last three in all competitions following defeats to to AEK Athens and Chelsea in the Europa League and Carabao Cup respectively.
De Zerbi has a few injury issues with Pascal Gross, James Milner and Adam Lallana all unavailable, while Lewis Dunk and Adam Webster have also been fitness concerns in recent weeks. Question were also raised this week when Barcelona loanee Ansu Fati was substituted at halftime against Chelsea. On the plus side however, teenage striker Evan Ferguson is passed fit having had knee and illness concerns in recent weeks.
De Zerbi will be delighted to have Dunk back afater he missed the Carabao defeat at Stamford Bridge in midweek. "Dunk and Kaoru Mitoma are different in terms of personality and characteristics.
"For example, Pascal Gorss in midfield gives us more personality and courage and he can be important in build-up and one of the best [at] scoring goals for us. And Lewis, it is difficult to replace him. He is very important."
Here’s how Brighton could line-up for this one.
1.
Roberto De Zerbi, Manager of Brighton & Hove Albion, has key decisions to make ahead of Aston Villa Photo: Eddie Keogh
2. Jason Steele - GK
The experienced stopper could be back between the sticks as De Zerbi continues to rotate between Steele and Bart Verbruggen Photo: Michael Regan
3. Joel Veltman - RB
I expect the experienced Dutchman to return at right back for this one. Photo: Eddie Keogh
4. Lewis Dunk - CB:
De Zerbi is relieved to have his skipper back. He was patched up for Bournemouth but even at 80 per cent he remains Albion’s best defender. Photo: Eddie Keogh