The Championship season is set to resume this weekend following the conclusion of the international break and here at FLW, we’re not sure if we are more excited about not having to watch England play for another month or that the Championship is finally going to be back.

One of the bigger ties sees two clubs, who could be doing much better for themselves at this point of the season, butt heads as Aston Villa host Brentford at Villa Park.

Aston Villa, who are 18th in the table on just five points, had a difficult transfer window following the club’s financial problems holding Steve Bruce back in the market.

However, they still brought in a decent number of players with the latest being Robert Snodgrass who could make his debut in this match.

Brentford currently occupy the 23rd position in the league on the same amount of points as bottom of the table Bolton.

The transfer deadline day last week saw the Bees sell some of their best players which won’t do much in helping their league position.

A win for Villa could see them shoot up the table and with that being said, here is the starting XI that Steve Bruce should use to beat Brentford on Saturday.

Sam Johnstone

Whilst the on loan keeper hasn't had the best of starts to the new season, his time with Preston North End proved he can be a quality keeper when he's at his best.

He's only going to get better as the season goes on and for that, he makes the team

James Chester

James Chester has played every minute of every league game so far this season and captained the Villains in their Carabao Cup first round victory over Colchester United.

During his short time at Villa Park he has evolved into a key player for the club and there is no doubt he will feature against Brentford.

John Terry

Some love him, some hate him, but there is no denying even now that John Terry brings a lot of quality to the Aston Villa defence.

Now the captain of Aston Villa, his legs may be growing older but his footballing mind and leadership qualities are as strong as ever and can be put to good use when the Championship returns.

Tommy Elphick

His only performance this season has come in the Carabao Cup and that is a shame for a player as good as Tommy Elphick.

A key figure during his time with Brighton and Bournemouth, Elphick has been replaced by the free agent Chris Samba after struggling with injury.

Considering he was captain of the club for the first half of last season, Elphick should be given another shot.

Glenn Whelan

 

One of the new boys at Villa Park this season, Glenn Whelan brings a lot of experience to the Aston Villa midfield.

The 33-year-old Irishman has played every minute of every game so far this season and that trend will surely continue against Brentford with his defensive prowess being crucial to protecting Villa's back three.

Conor Hourihane

 

It is likely, after his brilliant start this season, that Conor Hourihane is one of the first names if not the first name on the teamsheet.

Four league goals in four games including a hat-trick against Norwich from the centre of midfield is quite the accomplishment.

Bruce will be hoping Hourihane's good form continues this weekend.

Ahmed Elmohamady

 

Another new face at the club, Ahmed Elmohamady has only missed one league game so far this season and that was down to injury.

The 29-year-old has joined up with Steve Bruce for the third time in his career now after signing for the veteran manager at Sunderland and Hull City.

Looking at him play, there is a reason Bruce likes him so much.

Robert Snodgrass

 

Villa fans are looking forward to this Scot's debut which will almost certainly come against Brentford.

Robert Snodgrass joined the club on loan with an option to buy next season and given his experience in the Championship, it is likely the 29-year-old will produce the goods to make the move permanent.

The Brentford defence should be very concerned if they see him standing over a set-piece.

Josh Onomah

 

Part of the England u20 side that won the World Cup recently, Josh Onomah is settling into life at Villa very nicely.

The 20-year-old, who is on loan from Premier League side Tottenham, has been utilised well as an attacking midfielder and has already opened his account at Aston Villa with the equaliser against Bristol City recently.

Andre Green

 

Another talented youngster finding his feet at Villa Park only this time he is a product of the Aston Villa academy.

Andre Green has the world at his fingertips right now and is widely regarded as one of the most exciting young prospects in the division.

What is better yet, he can put in great performances now and proved that with his goal against Norwich.

Expect the 19-year-old to start this weekend.

 

 

Keinan Davis

The 19-year-old has been sensational since Steve Bruce gave the youngster an opportunity in the first-team fold.

Why change something that is working?

What do you think Villa fans? Let us know in the comments below!