Aston Villa have been handed a significant injury boost ahead of their crucial Europa League encounter with Swiss side BSC Young Boys.
Midfielder Amadou Onana has returned to first-team training at the club's Bodymoor Heath base, raising hopes he could feature in Thursday's European fixture.
Onana's Recent Absence Explained
The Belgian international missed Villa's dramatic 2-1 victory over Leeds United at Elland Road last weekend after undergoing a late fitness test on Saturday. His absence stemmed from a fitness issue picked up while on international duty with Belgium.
Onana had represented his country in Kazakhstan during the November break but subsequently missed Belgium's second match against Liechtenstein as a precautionary measure. The problem prevented him from being ready for selection against Leeds, dealing a blow to manager Unai Emery's plans.
Importance to Villa's Campaign
Onana had started all four of Villa's Premier League matches between the October and November international breaks, playing pivotal roles in impressive victories over Tottenham, Manchester City and Bournemouth.
The midfielder has also been a consistent presence in Europe, starting against both Go Ahead Eagles and Maccabi Tel Aviv in the Europa League. His potential return comes at an ideal time for Villa as they push for success on multiple fronts.
Emery's Upcoming Team News
Villa manager Unai Emery is scheduled to address the media on Wednesday afternoon, where he is expected to provide confirmation on Onana's availability for the Young Boys match.
Following their victory over Maccabi Tel Aviv, Villa are targeting their fourth win in five European matches this season when they host the Swiss outfit. The match forms part of a challenging schedule that sees Villa face FC Basel and Fenerbahce away before hosting RB Salzburg in their final league-phase fixture.
In more positive news for Villa fans, Tyrone Mings remains the only confirmed absentee for the upcoming European contest, suggesting the squad is otherwise at full strength.
