Aston Villa manager Unai Emery is facing a series of significant fitness concerns as his squad prepares for a crucial Premier League encounter against Everton at Villa Park this weekend. The Midlands club, buoyed by an impressive run of 11 consecutive home victories, could be without several first-team regulars for the visit of David Moyes's side.
Key Absentees for Villa's Home Fortress
The injury situation at Bodymoor Heath is casting a shadow over Villa's preparations. The most immediate concern surrounds goalkeeper Emi Martinez. The Argentine World Cup winner was substituted at half-time during the recent 0-0 draw with Crystal Palace due to a calf issue and subsequently missed the FA Cup win at Tottenham Hotspur. While the problem is not believed to be serious, his availability for Sunday remains uncertain.
In midfield, the absence of Amadou Onana is confirmed. Emery stated last Friday that the influential Belgian is facing two to three weeks on the sidelines with his injury. This timeline suggests a potential return for the trip to Newcastle United next weekend, though a comeback after that match appears more probable.
Kamara Blow and Barkley's Recovery
Villa's midfield resources were further depleted during the cup victory at Tottenham, where Boubacar Kamara was forced off early. Scans conducted on Sunday confirmed the French international is also expected to be absent for two to three weeks. Club medical staff plan further assessments once the initial swelling subsides to determine a more precise recovery path.
Meanwhile, playmaker Ross Barkley continues his rehabilitation from a knee sprain suffered in late November. Emery indicated the former England international is roughly three weeks away from a return, placing a potential comeback in early February.
Everton's Team News and Form Guide
The visitors present a formidable challenge, despite their own selection issues. Everton have shown impressive resilience on their travels recently, winning three of their last five Premier League away games. Notably, they have kept clean sheets in four of those five matches, a defensive solidity they had struggled to find in previous excursions.
David Moyes is awaiting fitness updates on defender Jarrad Branthwaite, midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, and long-term absentees Seamus Coleman and Charly Alcaraz. However, the Toffees will welcome Jack Grealish back from suspension, while defender Michael Keane continues to serve a three-match ban.
This fixture promises to be a tactical battle between two well-organised sides. Villa will rely on their formidable home record to overcome potential absences, while Everton will aim to extend their impressive defensive form on the road. The outcome could significantly impact the European qualification picture as the season progresses.
