Jack Grealish and John McGinn should be rested against Brighton

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Aston Villa travel down to the south coast on Wednesday night to lock horns with Brighton & Hove Albion. It is an EFL Cup clash and a welcome break from the Premier League after some disappointing results.

Dean Smith will be weighing up his options ahead of this game. With some players looking tired and others ready to stake a claim, there could be some changes. Jack Grealish and John McGinn are two who deserve a rest – here’s why.

Grealish and McGinn looking tired

Grealish and McGinn have both played in every minute of every game in the Premier League this season. In addition, Grealish played 22 minutes in the EFL Cup against Crewe Alexandra.

This shows just how important Smith believes these two players are. But both of them looked tired towards the end of the game against Arsenal on Sunday. With a heavy build-up of fixtures, it is time to rest these players, rather than add to their fatigue.

Other players get a chance

Grealish and McGinn stepping aside for a game could allow others to get a chance in the team. Some fringe players will be desperate to show what they can do and earn a place in the first-team on a more regular basis.

Henri Lansbury, Conor Hourihane and Douglas Luiz will all be aiming for starts in central midfield tomorrow. They would have the chance to show they can perform well against Premier League opposition.

Fresh for Burnley

Aston Villa’s main priority will be the weekend clash with Burnley – despite their midweek cup game. Smith needs his best players fully fit for this game and that is why Grealish and McGinn should be rested against Brighton.

Burnley at home is a winnable game and Grealish and McGinn are two who can influence this match. Smith cannot risk injury or further fatigue as he needs both players at their best to lift Villa out of the relegation zone.