Aston Villa have surpassed expectations this year in the Premier League, and even looked like title challengers at one point.
Unai Emery‘s side currently sit in the lofty heights of fourth, though in order for a Champions League place to be secured, they’ll need to avoid injuries to key men and continue to maintain the gap between them and Spurs.
With that in mind, Football FanCast is here to keep you updated with the latest injury and suspension news ahead of Saturday’s evening clash with Chelsea.
This year, Aston Villa has outperformed everyone in the Premier League and at one stage appeared to be a title contender.
Unai Emery’s team is now in fourth position, but they need to keep their lead over Spurs and prevent injuries to important players if they are to guarantee a Champions League spot.
In light of this, Football FanCast is here to provide you with the most recent information on injuries and suspensions prior to Saturday’s evening matchup with Chelsea.
Nicolo Zaniolo missed the midweek win over Bournemouth through injury, and while Emery was hopeful that the Italian wouldn’t be on the treatment table for long, he will not be fit enough to take part this weekend.
Whether he is fit for next week’s Europa Conference League semi-final first leg against Olympiacos remains to be seen, but he appears to be the Villa player closest to a first-team return.