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Hibs vs Aston Villa LIVE: Emery's side set for first European clash in 13 years

talksport.com, 21 August 2023, 15:19
Aston Villa will play their first European game for over a decade when they face Hibernian in their Europa Conference League play-off clash this week.

The Villans have not played in a continental competition since 2010 when they were knocked out of the Europa League under caretaker boss Kevin McDonald.

But they now return under Unai Emery and are one step away from reaching the group stages of UEFA's Conference League.

Emery's side take on Scottish outfit Hibernian in the play-off round, with the tie to be played over two legs to determine who reaches the main competition.

Hibernian vs Aston Villa: talkSPORT coverage

This Europa Conference League play-off first leg will be played on Wednesday, August 23.

Kick-off at Easter Road is scheduled for 5:45pm.

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talkSPORT 2 will have live coverage of the game.

Commentary will come from Mark Wilson and Chris Iwelumo.

To tune in to talkSPORT or talkSPORT 2 through the website, click HERE for the live stream.

You can also listen via the talkSPORT app, on DAB digital radio, through your smart speaker and on 1089 or 1053 AM.

Hibernian vs Aston Villa: Team news

Former Premier League striker Adam Le Fondre could start for Hibernian on Wednesday alongside Dylan Vente or Christian Doidge.

Dylan Levitt is likely to miss this game after suffering an ankle injury in the previous round while Harry McKirdy and Jojo Wollacott remain out.

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Aston Villa are expected to name a first-string side for their huge clash with Ollie Watkins and former Hibs player John McGinn starring.

Moussa Diaby has more recent experience in Europe with Bayer Leverkusen and that may prove to be key for Emery's side.

Tyrone Mings and Emi Buendia are out for the foreseeable future with ACL injuries while Philippe Coutinho has also picked up an injury.

Jacob Ramsey and Alex Moreno will both also remain unavailable.

Hibernian vs Aston Villa: What has been said?

Hibs manager Lee Johnson is expecting 'one of the most difficult' games of the season as his side faces Villa.

He said: "We want to make an impact on the cups. I've been lucky to win this competition as a player so I know it's big.

"We want to keep building the club, that's the key. The squad is going to be really important. There's no starting XI. Everyone has to play their part.

"We will need our fans on side. The positivity over the European games has transcended into the lads' performances.

"Now we need them to give us that extra yard through their voice in a game we're expected to win - but it's one of the most difficult of the season for that reason."

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