Arsenal v Aston Villa Injury Update
Ahead of Aston Villa’s highly anticipated Premier League trip to the Emirates to face Arsenal, manager Unai Emery provided key updates on the fitness of several players in his squad. The injury list continues to pose challenges for Villa as they look to build momentum across multiple competitions. Here’s the latest from Emery’s pre-match press conference.
Donyell Malen: Could He Make His Debut?
Villa’s January signing Donyell Malen could be in line for his first appearance in claret and blue. When asked if the Dutch forward would be available for the Arsenal clash, Emery’s response hinted at the possibility:
“Could be, yes.”
While not a definitive answer, it signals that Malen should at least feature on the bench, offering Villa additional attacking firepower as they aim to capitalise on Arsenal’s recent defensive vulnerabilities.
John McGinn: On the Verge of a Return
Emery also provided a positive update on John McGinn, whose return appears to be ahead of schedule. The Villa captain has been a notable absence in recent weeks, but signs point to him being available for Villa’s next home game against West Ham and their crucial Champions League tie with Celtic.
“John McGinn is starting to train on the field, but not for tomorrow,” Emery revealed.
McGinn’s return couldn’t come at a better time for Villa, as they approach a key junction of the season, given his combative nature and leadership in midfield.
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Pau Torres, Ross Barkley, and Diego Carlos: Still Out
Villa’s defensive options remain limited as Pau Torres is still sidelined, and Diego Carlos has been ruled out after feeling unwell:
“Pau Torres is still out, not available for tomorrow. Diego Carlos this morning, in the medical report, he’s not feeling good and I think he’s not going to be (available) for tomorrow as well.”
With Torres and Carlos both unavailable, Villa’s backline will once again be under pressure against Arsenal’s potent attack, but it’s a real chance to road test the deep sitting midfield combo of Amadou Onana and Boubacar Kamara against top class opposition.
Meanwhile, Ross Barkley remains out of action.
UTV
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