Aston Villa face a crucial Premier League away fixture against Crystal Palace this Wednesday, but manager Unai Emery must navigate a significant injury list as his side aims to consolidate their impressive league position.
Defensive Doubts for Selhurst Park Trip
The Villans, currently sitting 3rd in the Premier League table behind Arsenal and Manchester City, travel to Selhurst Park following a 3-1 home victory over Nottingham Forest. However, their defensive options are stretched. Spanish centre-back Pau Torres remains a doubt for the midweek clash and is considered more likely to return for the weekend encounter with Tottenham Hotspur.
His continued absence offers another opportunity for Victor Lindelof to partner Ezri Konsa. In further defensive news, long-term absentee Tyrone Mings is also not yet ready for a first-team return as he recovers from a thigh injury. The club is taking a patient approach, with a potential target for his comeback being the home game against Everton on Sunday 18th January.
Midfield Blow with Onana Sidelined
A significant new concern for Emery is the absence of key midfielder Amadou Onana. The Belgian international, who has become a pivotal figure in the engine room, suffered a hamstring injury during the away match at Arsenal and missed the Forest victory.
There is no confirmed return date for the 24-year-old, leaving a considerable void in midfield. His absence will require increased contributions from the likes of John McGinn, Youri Tielemans, Boubacar Kamara and Lamare Bogarde to maintain Villa's momentum.
Further Team News and Absences
Elsewhere in the treatment room, attacking midfielder Ross Barkley continues his recovery from a knee issue. The 32-year-old, who has made just seven league appearances this season, is reportedly aiming for a return in early February at the earliest.
Furthermore, forward Evann Guessand is unavailable as he is on international duty with Ivory Coast at the Africa Cup of Nations. The summer signing from Nice is yet to score in 12 Premier League outings and will be hoping to regain confidence during the tournament.
With several first-team players missing, Emery's selection and tactics will be under scrutiny as Villa face a tricky test against 14th-placed Crystal Palace, looking to build on the momentum from their last win.
