Aston Villa vs. Chelsea: Lineups and open match thread

Aston Villa could seriously bolster their hopes for staying out of the relegation fray with a win today. Even a draw would be a huge boost. Neither are all that likely, to be honest, but we've certainly seen stranger things. This is the sort of match where it bears keeping in mind the fact that a good performance, even in a loss, would be a good sign.

If you haven't already, make sure to read Aaron's preview for a more in-depth look at what's to come. Jack took a look at what might work tactically against Chelsea, and it's worth a read before the match gets underway. Lineups are below, and we hope you'll join us in the comments.

Up the Villa!

Aston Villa Starting XI

Brad Guzan; Nathan Baker, Joe Bennett, Ron Vlaar, Leandro Bacuna; Karim El Ahmadi, Ashley Westwood, Fabian Delph; Andi Weimann, Gabby Agbonlahor, Christian Benteke

Aston Villa Subs

Jed Steer, Ciaran Clark, Matthew Lowton, Marc Albrighton, Yacouba Sylla, Grant Holt, Callum Robinson

Chelsea Starting XI

Petr Cech; Branislav Ivanovic, Gary Cahill, John Terry, Cesar Azpilicueta; Ramires, Oscar, Eden Hazard, Nemanja Matic, Willian; Fernando Torres

Chelsea Subs

Mark Schwarzer, Tomas Kalas, Frank Lampard, John Mikel Obi, Andre Schürrle, Mohamed Salah, Demba Ba