New test for Emery's battalion.. Aston Villa host Fulham amid a blazing African conflict

31.10.26 16:00 English Premier League

Aston Villa

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Fulham

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Aston Villa host Fulham at Villa Park on Saturday 31 October, in a Premier League Matchday 9 encounter featuring several African internationals, with Senegal's Nicolas Jackson and Ibrahim Mbaye and Nigeria's Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey among the players in focus.

The match kicks off at 20:00 GMT, as Unai Emery's Aston Villa seek a third consecutive league victory against an improving Fulham side managed by Alvaro Arbeloa.

Four African internationals could feature in the encounter, although the confirmed starting lineups had not been announced at the time of reporting.

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Nicolas Jackson: Senegalese striker targets another goal

Nicolas Jackson enters the encounter in excellent form after establishing himself as Aston Villa's leading Premier League goalscorer this season.

The Senegal international has scored four goals in his last four league appearances, including both goals in the 2-1 victory over Manchester City on 24 October.

As Foot Africa previously reported, Jackson's brace ended Manchester City's unbeaten league record, underlining his growing influence following his summer arrival from Chelsea.

The 25 year old has also impressed in European competition, scoring three goals in Aston Villa's opening two Champions League matches.

Speaking during his pre-match press conference, Emery praised the Senegalese forward's professionalism and commitment.

"He's showing us and I knew him like that, being very, very professional" the Spanish coach said, according to Aston Villa's official website.

Jackson is expected to lead the attack against Fulham where he could face fellow African international Calvin Bassey.

Ibrahim Mbaye: Another Senegalese option for Unai Emery

Jackson is not Aston Villa's only Senegalese attacking option.

Young winger Ibrahim Mbaye is also pushing for playing time after making an encouraging impression in recent weeks.

The 18 year old joined Villa from Paris Saint Germain during the summer and initially struggled to establish himself in Emery's plans.

However, his situation has gradually improved.

As Foot Africa highlighted, Mbaye registered three assists in his first three starts for Aston Villa, contributing against Coventry City, Fenerbahce and Viking FK.

His pace, movement and ability to create chances could provide Emery with another attacking solution against Fulham.

Nevertheless, his involvement from the start remains uncertain, with the Villa manager possessing several options in advanced positions.

Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey: Nigeria's representatives at Fulham

Fulham's African representation is led by Nigerian internationals Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey.

Iwobi has played an important role in the London club's recent improvement.

The 30 year old midfielder scored the winning goal in Fulham's 1-0 victory over Hull City on 17 October, securing their first Premier League win of the season.

As Foot Africa reported following the encounter, Iwobi scored in the 34th minute after receiving a pass from Sander Berge.

His compatriot Bassey also impressed in that match, winning eight duels, making five clearances and completing three tackles.

The 26 year old centre back remains an important defensive option for Fulham.

Saturday's match could therefore feature an intriguing confrontation between Bassey and Jackson, with the Nigerian defender attempting to contain the in form Senegalese striker.

Meanwhile, Iwobi's creativity and movement could be important to Fulham's attacking ambitions.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka ruled out of the African contingent

One African international who will not feature is DR Congo defender Aaron Wan Bissaka.

The Aston Villa right back remains unavailable after sustaining a hamstring injury during the club's 1-0 victory over Newcastle United on 17 October.

As Foot Africa previously reported, Wan Bissaka suffered the injury during the second half, forcing him to leave the pitch.

Emery confirmed his continued absence ahead of the Fulham encounter.

His unavailability removes another African international from Villa's defensive options.

Aston Villa vs Fulham: Form, kick-off time and what's at stake

Aston Villa enter Saturday's encounter unbeaten in their previous four Premier League fixtures, with three victories and one draw.

Their recent results include wins against Tottenham, Newcastle and Manchester City.

Fulham, meanwhile, have recovered from a difficult start to the campaign.

After failing to win any of their first 6 league matches, the Cottagers recorded consecutive 1-0 victories over Hull City and Coventry City.

Both clubs were eliminated from the Carabao Cup in midweek increasing the importance of returning to winning ways in the league.

Fulham currently occupy 15th place while Aston Villa will be looking to maintain their recent momentum and strengthen their position in the standings.

The encounter will take place at Villa Park in Birmingham, with kick off scheduled for 20:00 GMT on Saturday.

Khaled Hegazy |

Editorar, en

Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

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