Aston Villa manager Unai Emery is confronting a growing injury crisis ahead of Monday night's high-stakes Premier League showdown with Liverpool, with several key players facing late fitness tests.
The Villa Park medical team are working overtime as multiple first-team regulars battle to be available for what promises to be a thrilling encounter under the lights.
Midfield Concerns Mount for Villa
Jacob Ramsey's participation hangs in the balance after the talented midfielder missed recent training sessions. The England Under-21 international, who has been instrumental in Villa's impressive campaign, is considered a major doubt for the Liverpool fixture.
Adding to Emery's midfield worries, Youri Tielemans also faces a race against time. The Belgian international's potential absence would represent a significant blow to Villa's creative capabilities in the centre of the park.
Defensive and Attacking Worries
Spanish full-back Alex Moreno presents another concern for the Villa coaching staff. The defender's potential unavailability could force Emery into defensive reshuffling against Liverpool's formidable attacking unit.
While star striker Ollie Watkins is expected to lead the line, his recent fitness management raises questions about whether he'll be at 100% capacity against Virgil van Dijk and company.
What This Means for Villa's European Hopes
These injury concerns couldn't come at a worse time for Aston Villa, who are locked in a fierce battle for Champions League qualification. Facing a Liverpool side still fighting for the Premier League title requires Emery to have his strongest possible lineup available.
The absence of any of these key players would significantly impact Villa's game plan and reduce their chances of taking crucial points from the title-chasing Reds.
Emery and the Villa faithful will be anxiously awaiting the team news announcement on Monday evening, hoping their injury worries have eased in time for this pivotal Premier League clash.
