Unai Emery Delivers Matty Cash Injury News Following Villa's Victory
Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has provided an update on the fitness of right-back Matty Cash after the team's recent Premier League success. The defender was absent from the squad during Wednesday night's match against Brighton due to a knee issue, raising concerns among fans and pundits alike.
Injury Details and Replacement Strategy
Cash sustained what Emery described as a "small injury" to his knee, which prevented his selection for the crucial fixture. In his place, young talent Lamare Bogarde was handed a starting role and impressively completed the full ninety minutes, contributing to Villa's narrow 1-0 win over the Seagulls.
When questioned about Cash's condition post-match, Emery offered a cautious outlook. "He was injured, with a small injury," the manager stated. "I don't know if he will be available for Saturday. Each day is important for how he is progressing." This uncertainty leaves Villa's defensive plans in flux as they navigate a busy schedule.
Upcoming Fixtures and Return Timeline
The immediate focus shifts to Villa's FA Cup fourth-round clash with Newcastle this Saturday, but Emery's comments suggest Cash is more likely to target a return for the subsequent league game. Villa are set to host Leeds United at Villa Park on Saturday, February 21, in a match that could be pivotal for both sides, with Leeds battling relegation under Daniel Farke.
Beyond that, Villa face a challenging run of fixtures, including trips to Wolves and encounters with top-tier rivals Chelsea and Manchester United, who are both vying for Champions League positions. Cash's availability could prove crucial in maintaining Villa's competitive edge during this demanding period.
Broader Squad Injury Concerns
Cash is not the only player sidelined, as Villa grapple with multiple absences. Captain John McGinn is currently out with an injury and is not expected back until March, while midfielder Youri Tielemans is also unavailable until after the international break. In a significant blow, Boubacar Kamara has been ruled out for the remainder of the season after suffering a serious knee injury last month.
These setbacks test Villa's squad depth and resilience, making Emery's management and tactical adjustments all the more vital as they pursue their season objectives across domestic and European competitions.
