UTV Fan Channel: The best Aston Villa XI we haven't seen yet

The latest episode of the UTV Fan Channel presented by Luke focused entirely on constructing Aston Villa's strongest theoretical starting eleven, a combination the host admitted supporters are unlikely to see on a weekly basis. Rather than simply listing names, the show broke down the tactical reasoning behind each selection, emphasising how Unai Emery builds squads rather than fixed lineups.

In goal, Zion Suzuki was named without hesitation, with the host reiterating his belief that the summer signing was recruited specifically to be the undisputed first choice. At right-back, Matty Cash retained his place ahead of Aaron Wan-Bissaka. While acknowledging Wan-Bissaka is still adapting to life at the club, the UTV Fan Channel panel argued that Cash's consistency and understanding of the system make him an underrated Premier League full-back.

The most significant talking point came in central defence, where the show made a bold case for Taylor Harwood-Bellis to start alongside Pau Torres instead of Victor Lindelöf. The host acknowledged Lindelöf offers a reliable baseline performance but believes Harwood-Bellis has attributes that could elevate the team further. "My little hot take that I've had this season is that he will be playing for England," one of the hosts said, backing the claim by pointing to the young defender's passing range when deployed centrally against Coventry City.

At left-back, the UTV Fan Channel panel opted for Matteo Ruggeri over Ian Maatsen, leaning heavily on early-season defensive metrics. The host cited data placing Ruggeri in the top percentiles for defensive duels and interceptions among Premier League full-backs. While conceding Maatsen offers more attacking thrust, the show argued that Ruggeri provides better structural balance, particularly given the fluidity expected from the rest of the backline.

In midfield, Boubacar Kamara and João Gomes were paired together as the optimal duo. The host noted that Leon Goretzka remains difficult to place until his specific role within Emery's structure becomes clearer. Gomes was highlighted for his ball-winning and pressing numbers despite limited minutes following his red card earlier in the campaign.

Up front, Nicolas Jackson led the line as what the show described as an easy selection. Behind him, Johan Manzambi and Ibrahim Mbaye were chosen as the supporting attackers. The host suggested Manzambi needs refinement in his positional play but insisted his technical ceiling is exceptionally high. "I think Manzanbe's ceiling is far higher than Rogers," the panel claimed, praising his vision and decision-making on the ball.

Ultimately, the UTV Fan Channel stressed that this eleven represents a peak configuration rather than a realistic weekly template. The host pointed out that players like Emiliano Buendía, John McGinn and Alysson provide ample alternatives depending on the opponent, reflecting the depth Emery now has at his disposal.