At a glance:
- Amadou Onana injured
- Midfielder touch and go vs Tottenham
- Villa could rest players on Sunday
Tottenham and Aston Villa will trade tackles on Sunday in what could be an important Premier League clash for both teams.
The Lilywhites are in the relegation battle and need to get three points to build on their 1-0 win against Wolves last week.
Unai Emery’s side, meanwhile, still need points on the board to secure UEFA Champions League football next season.
And the Spaniard has confirmed that his team could be without Amadou Onana for the game at Villa Park tomorrow.
Amadou Onana doubtful for Tottenham clash
Amadou Onana has been one of Villa’s most reliable players this season in midfield.
The towering Belgian was substituted prematurely during their 1-0 UEFA Europa League defeat to Nottingham Forest due to a calf injury.
Read More: Roberto De Zerbi makes big James Maddison claim before Tottenham vs Aston Villa
Speaking at a press conference ahead of the game against Tottenham, Emery confirmed that Onana faces a race against time to be fit tomorrow.
“Difficult. He had a scan and we will see the consequences after it and how he is feeling, but for Sunday, it is sure he is not available,” said the Spaniard via BBC.
“On Sunday, we need the stadium full, the supporters helping us, playing with us, bringing the energy.
“We are trying to enjoy with our supporters. We have been consistent, three years in a row, playing in Europe. This year, we have the opportunity to fight for it.”
Emery on Tottenham’s struggles
Roberto De Zerbi has breathed new life into Tottenham since his arrival. However, the Lilywhites still aren’t playing the football he’d like, which is only natural, according to Emery.
“Each match in the Premier League is very difficult. They have very good players and they have a very good coach,” continued Emery.
Read More: Tottenham have already made offer to sign French international midfielder
“Maybe he will need time to set the tactical things he [Roberto De Zerbi] did in Brighton, which were really fantastic. I think he will do it, but now they are trying to escape the bottom and they need points more than playing in a strong structure or idea, which he is usually doing.
“They have experienced players, good players, and I expect a very difficult match. Villa Park is something we must use, pushing us to win the match.”
Tottenham will be without Guglielmo Vicario and Dominic Solanke tomorrow, while Destiny Udogie and James Maddison could return.
They still have a lot of injuries to deal with, but with time running out, they need every last member of their squad to stand up and be counted for the four games that remain to secure their Premier League status.
