Unai Emery Delivers Crucial Squad Update Ahead of Newcastle Showdown
Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has provided a comprehensive injury update as his squad prepares for their Premier League encounter with Newcastle United this Sunday. The Spanish tactician addressed the fitness concerns surrounding several key players following Thursday night's Europa League victory over Fenerbahce in Istanbul.
Confirmed Absences and Fitness Assessments
Emery confirmed that three first-team players will definitely miss the trip to St James' Park. John McGinn, Boubacar Kamara, and Ross Barkley have all been ruled out of contention for the crucial domestic fixture. The manager revealed that McGinn is currently undergoing medical consultations, with a clearer assessment expected within the coming days.
"McGinn, update I don't have, because he is visiting some doctors," Emery stated. "We'll know his assessment in a few days. Kamara is out, of course."
Regarding Barkley's recovery progress, the Villa boss added: "Barkley is training individually, but close to being with the group, maybe next week."
Goalkeeper Situation and Returning Players
Significant attention focuses on goalkeeper Emi Martinez, who missed the European victory with a calf problem. Emery confirmed that the Argentine international's fitness will be assessed on Saturday, leaving his availability for Sunday's match uncertain until the final hours before kickoff.
In more positive news, Leon Bailey has been declared available for selection following his return from international duty. Emery expressed confidence in the winger's readiness, noting: "His adaptation is not necessary. He knows us and he is coming here fit. For Sunday, he is going to be available."
Post-Match Recovery Considerations
The manager emphasized the importance of monitoring player recovery following Thursday's European exertions. "Of course, we will need tomorrow, how the players played yesterday will be," Emery explained. "Because, after one match, often the players, they are feeling a little bit tired or something even with being painful."
Emery concluded by confirming that the three injured players would not feature while indicating that final decisions on other squad members would be made following Saturday's training assessment. The Villans return to Premier League action seeking to build momentum after their European success, with squad depth and player fitness becoming increasingly crucial as the season progresses.
