Aston Villa have been dealt a significant injury setback ahead of their Premier League clash with Arsenal, with forward Evann Guessand ruled out of the matchday squad.
Injury blow for key forward
The 24-year-old striker misses the crucial fixture through injury, although the exact moment he sustained the problem remains unclear. This comes as a particular surprise given Guessand started and played in Villa's dramatic 4–3 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion just days ago on Wednesday night.
That appearance marked his sixth league start of the current campaign. Furthermore, he has been a consistent figure in European competition, having started all five of Aston Villa's Europa League league-phase matches to date.
Implications for Villa's busy schedule
Guessand's untimely injury now places his involvement in Thursday's upcoming Europa League match against FC Basel in serious doubt. This presents a selection headache for manager Unai Emery during a congested period of fixtures.
Compounding the issue is the impending Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Guessand is expected to be selected for the Ivory Coast national squad for the tournament. Consequently, next weekend's Premier League match away at West Ham United could potentially be his final appearance for Villa before departing for international duty.
Team news and confirmed lineup
In more positive news for the Villans, first-choice goalkeeper Emi Martínez has been passed fit to start against Mikel Arteta's side this afternoon. The Argentine has successfully overcome a back injury.
Martínez will line up behind a defensive quartet of Matty Cash, Ezri Konsa, Pau Torres, and Ian Maatsen. In midfield, the double pivot consists of Boubacar Kamara and Amadou Onana. The attacking support for lone striker Ollie Watkins will be provided by John McGinn, Youri Tielemans, and Morgan Rogers.
Guessand's absence removes an important attacking option for Emery as Villa look to continue their strong form against one of the league's title contenders.
