Aston Villa lineup vs. Newcastle United: Predicted XI for Villa's Premier League opener, with Martinez ruled out

Premier League football returns to Villa Park on Saturday, as Aston Villa and Newcastle United clash on the opening matchday for the second time in three seasons.

Villa boss Unai Emery has largely kept his squad intact despite doubts surrounding several key men, and star striker Ollie Watkins will lead the hosts' attack: to date, the England international has scored five goals in four top-flight home games against Newcastle.

Also linked with moves away this summer, captain John McGinn and influential forward Morgan Rogers are also available, but Emiliano Martinez will not start even though his expected exit failed to transpire. 

The Argentinian goalkeeper must serve a suspension for his costly red card on the final day of last season, meaning a likely debut for new recruit Marco Bizot, who recently replaced Malmo-bound Robin Olsen as the Villans' back-up stopper.

While Rogers is a slight doubt after spraining his ankle against Roma, Emery is set to be without Ross Barkley and Andres Garcia, who both missed most of pre-season.

As Jacob Ramsey could soon join Newcastle, and Rogers faces a race to prove his fitness, recent arrival Evann Guessand will fight with the likes of McGinn, Leon Bailey, Donyell Malen and Emi Buendia for selection behind lone striker Watkins.

Meanwhile, at the back, Tyrone Mings and Lucas Digne are vying with Pau Torres and Ian Maatsen to feature on the left side of Villa's four-man defence.

Aston Villa possible starting lineup: Bizot; Cash, Konsa, Mings, Digne; Kamara, Tielemans; Malen, McGinn, Rogers; Watkins

> Click here to see how Newcastle United could line up for this Premier League contest