Lee Johnson names Hibernian team to face Aston Villa in play-off

Lee Johnson and Unai Emery have named their Hibernian and Aston Villa sides for the first leg of the Europa Conference League play-off at Easter Road.

The teams meet for an early kick-off in the eagerly-anticipated ‘Battle of Britain’ clash, with Villa heavy favourites to progress to the group stage.

Hibs have beaten Andorrans Inter Club d’Escalde and Swiss side Luzern to reach this stage and Johnson and his players are dreaming of a monumental upset to go a stage further.

The manager is hoping for a first leg result to build on and has named a strong side to face the English Premier League stars.

The experienced David Marshall is in goal, with captain Paul Hanlon, Will Fish and Lewis Stevenson in defence.

Jordan Obita and Lewis Miller are on the flanks, with Josh Campbell and Joe Newell in the centre of the park, while Martin Boyle and Elie Youan are playing in support of central striker Dylan Vente.

Aston Villa start with Emilio Martinez in goal and a back four of Lucas Digne, Pau Torres, Ezri Konsa and Matty Cash.

Boubacar Kamara and Douglas Luiz anchor the midfield, with John McGinn, Leon Bailey and Moussa Diaby behind striker Ollie Watkins.