Aston Villa have been dealt a late blow ahead of their crucial Premier League clash with Everton at Villa Park, with key loan signing Jadon Sancho ruled out due to illness.
Sancho Sidelined for Key Fixture
The Manchester United winger, who has experienced a mixed spell of starts and substitute appearances under Unai Emery, was a notable omission from the matchday squad announced on Sunday, 18th January 2026. His absence leaves the Villans' bench looking particularly light on proven attacking options.
When Birmingham World sought clarification on the situation, a source close to the club confirmed that the 25-year-old was simply 'unwell', alleviating any immediate fears of a more serious injury. Supporters can therefore expect Sancho to return to contention once he has recovered.
Emery's Limited Bench Options
With Sancho unavailable, manager Unai Emery's choices to change the game from the bench are significantly reduced. The only senior attacking substitute with substantial experience is Evann Guessand, who has recently returned from international duty at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Beyond Guessand, Emery may have to turn to the promising academy graduate Jamaldeen Jimoh-Aloba if fresh legs are required in the forward areas during the match against Sean Dyche's Everton.
Villa Eye Second Place with Victory
Despite Sancho's absence, today presents a golden opportunity for Aston Villa. A win against Everton would see them leapfrog Manchester City into second place in the Premier League table, following City's surprise 2-0 defeat to Manchester United.
Furthermore, with league leaders Arsenal dropping points in a 0-0 draw at Nottingham Forest, a Villa victory would close the gap at the top to just four points. It would also mark a club-record 12th consecutive Premier League home win at Villa Park.
Emery has consistently played down talk of a title challenge, especially after a heavy 4-1 defeat at the Emirates last month. However, a positive result today, even without Jadon Sancho, would undoubtedly reignite the conversation about Villa's credentials as the season enters its decisive phase.
