Aston Villa begin the road to potential Europa Conference League glory this evening against Hibernian.
The Villans face a two-legged play-off against the Edinburgh-based side to gain a group stage spot in UEFA’s newest competition.
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Listen to Hibernian vs Aston Villa commentary HERE
Unai Emery’s men would surely be the favourites for the tournament if they make it past Hibs, given their squad depth and the Spaniard’s European trophy record.
But the Scottish side will look to pull off what would be a major upset and are prepared to ensure John McGinn’s return to Easter Road ends badly.
Hibernian vs Aston Villa: How to watch
The first leg of this Europa Conference League clash will take place on Wednesday, August 23.
Kick-off at Easter Road is scheduled for 5:45pm.
No English-based broadcaster has selected this one for coverage.
But the match will be streamed on BBC Scotland, which can be accessed on Freeview, Sky and Virgin.
Alternatively, supporters can follow the action on their mobile devices and laptops via BBC iPlayer.
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Hibernian vs Aston Villa: How to listen
talkSPORT 2 will have live commentary of this European clash, with Mark Wilson and former Scotland international Chris Iwelumo providing coverage.
talkSPORT.com will also be on hand to provide all the best reaction.
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
The hosts hope to have Dutch striker Dylan Vente fit after being caught in the face at the weekend.
But Lee Johnson is unlikely to be without Dylan Levitt due to a potentially serious ankle injury.
Joe Wollacott, Chris Cadden and Harry McKirdy are also all out.
Meanwhile, Villa won’t be able to call on the services of Tyrone Mings or Emi Buendia for a long time due to both suffering ACL injuries.
New loan signing Nicolo Zaniolo should be fit to start and could make his debut.
But this one comes too soon for Jacob Ramsey and Alex Moreno.
While Leander Dendoncker is still missing and Philippe Coutinho limped off in the win over Everton.
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Hibernian vs Aston Villa: What has been said?
Villa captain McGinn can’t wait to face his former side.
He said: “I never got the chance when I left to show my appreciation to the fans or anyone there.
“Neil Lennon and I had a feeling at that point it would be my last game [Motherwell at home, August 2018]. I remember coming off, but you don’t want to be that guy that does a lap of honour, expecting appreciation. So, I just jogged off as normal.
“It will be nice to see the supporters and thank them for what was an amazing three years, but at the same time when the whistle goes, I hope they’re cursing and swearing at me and treating me like a normal opponent.
“Hibs was a massive part of my life, the way they treated me through the three years was amazing.
“They’ve evolved over the past few years and I’m sure this occasion will be one they’ll be hoping for more of in the future.”
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