Aston Villa have been dealt a significant midfield blow with the news that key player Boubacar Kamara is expected to miss the next two to three weeks of action.
Injury blow in FA Cup clash
The French international sustained the problem during Villa's FA Cup third-round tie against Tottenham Hotspur. The incident occurred in the ninth minute when Kamara took a heavy blow to the leg from Spurs midfielder Joao Palhinha.
He attempted to continue after initial treatment from the club's medical staff but was ultimately unable to carry on. The 25-year-old was seen hobbling off the pitch and down the tunnel, a sight that will have concerned manager Unai Emery.
Recovery timeline and squad impact
Scans conducted on Sunday have provided the initial prognosis. While swelling needs to subside before further assessment, the early indication is a two to three-week absence for the influential midfielder.
This timeline means Kamara will definitely miss upcoming crucial fixtures. Villa host Everton in the Premier League this Sunday before travelling for Europa Conference League action against Fenerbahce and a league trip to Newcastle United.
An optimistic return could see him back for matches against RB Salzburg or Brentford. However, a more probable comeback is pencilled in for the Premier League encounter with Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium.
Emery's midfield concerns deepen
Kamara's absence is a major setback for Unai Emery, who views the player as a pivotal figure in his system. The club recognised his importance last summer by rewarding him with a new long-term contract.
The injury news compounds existing midfield issues for Villa. Belgian international Amadou Onana is also ruled out for approximately another fortnight, while experienced campaigner Ross Barkley is not anticipated back until February.
This leaves Emery with limited options in the engine room as his team competes on multiple fronts, challenging for European qualification and progressing in cup competitions.
