Unai Emery Delivers Crucial Team News Ahead of Villa's Forest Clash
Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has provided a significant update on winger Jadon Sancho's fitness as the team prepares for their Premier League encounter against Nottingham Forest this Sunday. The Villans will make a late decision regarding Sancho's availability for the crucial match at the City Ground.
Sancho's Shoulder Injury Timeline
Sancho missed Villa's recent 3-1 victory in Bologna due to a shoulder injury sustained during a friendly match against Elche over the March international break. The English international left the field with his arm in a sling, with initial expectations suggesting a recovery period of approximately two to three weeks.
Speaking during his pre-match press conference, Emery offered encouraging news about Sancho's progress. "He's improving and getting better, Sancho," the Villa boss confirmed. "We will see how he is tomorrow because he was an injury for a few days or one, two or three weeks, but now it's the second week, just starting the second week with his injury."
Additional Villa Squad Updates
Emery also provided updates on other squad members ahead of the weekend fixture. "Alysson is starting to train with the group as well, progressively getting better," he revealed. However, the news wasn't entirely positive as the manager confirmed that "(Boubacar) Kamara is out and the other players are training normally."
The Spanish tactician emphasized the importance of recovery protocols in the final preparations. "We will see how they are coming tomorrow because it's very important now to rest, eat good food, and then we will train tomorrow at 4pm. How they are coming tomorrow is very important for how they are feeling to play on Sunday 100 per cent."
Late Fitness Decision Expected
With Sancho now entering the second week of his recovery period, Villa's medical staff will closely monitor his condition before making a final determination about his participation against Nottingham Forest. The match represents an important Premier League fixture for both clubs as they continue their respective campaigns.
Emery's comments suggest a cautious approach to Sancho's return, with the club prioritizing the player's long-term fitness while balancing the immediate needs of the first team. The decision will likely come down to the wire as Villa assess whether the winger has sufficiently recovered from his shoulder issue to contribute effectively on Sunday.
