Aston Villa make their return to Premier League action this Sunday with a challenging trip to Elland Road to face Leeds United, but manager Unai Emery faces several selection headaches due to fresh injury concerns within his squad.
Villa's Form and Fitness Concerns
Aston Villa travel to Yorkshire in formidable form, having secured eight victories from their last ten matches across all competitions. Their momentum was underscored by a emphatic 4-0 win against Bournemouth just before the international break, a result that highlighted their potent attack even as striker Ollie Watkins failed to get on the scoresheet.
However, the international period has introduced new fitness doubts. Defender Ezri Konsa is a major doubt after returning early from England duty with a calf issue. While national team manager Thomas Tuchel described it as "tightness" and a precautionary measure, his availability for the weekend remains uncertain.
There is better news regarding midfielder Youri Tielemans, who has made substitute appearances in Villa's last two games and declared himself "100 per cent" fit after managed minutes with Belgium.
Confirmed Absences and Long-Term Injuries
Unai Emery will definitely be without two players for the clash. Tyrone Mings remains sidelined with a hamstring injury sustained last month and is not expected back until January. Andres Garcia is also a confirmed absentee, with the Spaniard still several weeks away from a return according to the manager.
Adding to the selection concerns, young midfielder Lamar Bogarde is also a doubt after returning early from Netherlands Under-21 duty with what the Dutch FA termed "minor symptoms".
Leeds United Team News
Daniel Farke's Leeds have their own injury problems to contend with. Influential winger Wilfred Gnonto is a doubt as he continues his recovery from hernia surgery that has kept him out since September.
Summer signing Sebastiaan Bornauw is also racing to be fit, with the defender yet to make his Premier League debut due to persistent knee issues.
In more positive news for the hosts, full-back Gabriel Gudmundsson is expected to be available after featuring for Sweden during the break, alleviating fears after a recent training scare.
This 14:00 GMT kick-off promises to be a compelling tactical battle, with both managers needing to carefully assess their available options following the international interruption.
