3 ways in which Aston Villa can lineup in the upcoming season | Premier League 2019-20

3. 4-3-3

Another formation that is heavily relied upon by Dean Smith

This has been one of Dean Smith's most preferred formations since taking the hot seat at Aston Villa. It was the Englishman's decision to switch to the 4-3-3 that helped Villa go on a 12-match unbeaten streak since February that finally helped them get into the playoffs and, ultimately, win it.

Tom Heaton is the hands-down choice between the posts. The former Burnley man is sure to pip Croatian shot-stopper Lovre Kalinic for the No.1 spot.

Tyrone Mings and Bjorn Engles are likely to start in the heart of the defence with Ezri Kona and Kortney House acting as backup. Matt Targett and Ahmed Elmohamady could start as the full-backs with Fredric Guilbert likely to replace Elmohamdy after the first few matches.

Douglas Luiz is likely to start in the heart of the midfield with two of the starters of the play-off final, John McGinn and Jack Grealish partnering the Brazilian on either side of him.

The attacking front trio will see a familiar figure in Anwar El Ghazi starting on the right with Egyptian winger Trezeguet replacing Albert Adomah, who joined Nottingham Forrest in the summer, on the left.

Another new signing, Jota, is unlikely to get the nod ahead of the Egyptian but is likely to provide competition for Trezeguet for a place in the starting lineup. Jack Grealish is another player who might be introduced into the front trio because of his versatility.

Wesley Moraes will takeover from Tammy Abraham at the front after Chelsea loanee returned to his parent club after the completion of his loan spell. With Villa yet to make another signing in the striker position, Jonathan Kodjia looks more likely to play as the backup to Wesley.