Jonathan Kodjia Suspended, Aston Villa Face New Test

Star forward Jonathan Kodjia received his marching orders following a kick-out against Fulham’s Ryan Fredericks. It’s time for Steve Bruce and company to test new others in the squad.

Jonathan Kodjia received a straight sending off for the following actions:

One can judge for themselves, but the sending off looks quite harsh from that angle. Kodjia clearly strikes Frederick’s back side, but it *almost* looks incidental. Fredericks applies as much intent striking Kodjia’s ribs as the Ivorian does in retaliation.

The referee would do better by issuing yellow cards to both players. Seemingly neither offered malicious intent.

Nonetheless, rules are rules and Jonathan Kodjia retaliated. Now Aston Villa must face their heated rival, Birmingham City, without their star striker.

The club is currently awaiting news on a filed appeal. Villa management expect to find out by Thursday whether Kodjia can play again this season.

If unsuccessful, Jonathan Kodjia will miss three games due to suspension, the exact amount of matches remaining for Aston Villa. If there’s a bright side to any of this, it is he will not be suspended starting next season? I’m reaching people.

Bruce could turn to a number of forwards to close out the year. Most notably, Scott Hogan, who partnered Kodjia against Fulham. André Green is inactive after a recurrence of his hamstring strain, but Rushian Hepburn-Murphy is available.

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The suspension, if held, might mean the return of Jack Grealish in the starting lineup. Grealish blasted his fourth league goal on the season in the 3-1 Fulham defeat.

Playing “Super Jack” just behind Scott Hogan might give Aston Villa a different look entering next season. A pair of proper wingers flanking the pair gives the club a balanced, symmetrical look.

For Villa, it’s all Birmingham City this week. The Second City Derby kicks off on Sunday from Villa Park.