Aston Villa have been dealt a fresh injury blow after first-choice goalkeeper Emi Martinez was forced off at half-time during their Premier League clash with Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.
Emery Confirms Calf Problem for Key Stopper
Villa boss Unai Emery provided the update on his goalkeeper following the match, confirming the Argentine international was withdrawn due to a calf issue. Martinez made a smart first-half save to deny Brennan Johnson but did not emerge for the second period.
"He has a small injury. A small injury," Emery stated in his post-match comments. "I am not a doctor, but it is in his calf. He played fantastic in the first half."
The manager indicated that the club's medical staff would now assess the extent of the problem, offering a tentative recovery timeline. "Now we will check him with the doctor and hopefully in a few days or weeks he will come back ready to play."
Bizot Steps In to Secure Clean Sheet
Dutch goalkeeper Marco Bizot was introduced at the interval for his ninth appearance of the campaign. The deputy successfully protected Villa's lead, ensuring a clean sheet in the second half.
Emery was quick to praise the stand-in's performance, adding: "Marco Bizot also played fantastic in the second half."
Martinez's Stop-Start Season Continues
This latest setback adds to what has been a fragmented season for the World Cup winner. Martinez has already missed several matches due to injury and suspension.
He previously pulled out of fixtures against Feyenoord and Brighton & Hove Albion after feeling discomfort during warm-ups. Injuries also ruled him out of games against Bologna, Basel, and West Ham United earlier this term.
Furthermore, he did not feature in the reverse fixture against Crystal Palace earlier this season amid speculation over his future. Martinez also served a suspension on the opening day against Newcastle United following a red card received on the final day of the previous campaign against Manchester United.
The club and its supporters will now await further medical assessment to determine the full severity of this latest calf issue and the likely duration of Martinez's absence.
