Aston Villa looking to maintain top-four push despite injury setbacks

Aston Villa and Everton are set to lock horns at Villa Park on 14 September 2024, as the Premier League resumes after the international break. Both teams are battling significant injury issues that threaten to alter their game plans. For Villa, this match is a golden opportunity to exploit Everton's shaky start and bolster their quest for a top-four spot.

Aston Villa's injury woes

Unai Emery faces a daunting task as Aston Villa grapples with injuries to key players. Ollie Watkins, the team's leading striker, is uncertain for the match after withdrawing from England duty due to an ongoing issue. His absence could blunt Villa's attacking edge, forcing Emery to rethink his offensive strategy.

The midfield and defence are also under strain. Boubacar Kamara and Tyrone Mings are sidelined with knee injuries, with Kamara not expected back in training until next month. Matty Cash will miss a month due to a hamstring problem, necessitating a reshuffle of the defensive line. In their recent victory over Leicester City, Lamare Bogarde stepped in at right-back, showcasing Emery's ability to adapt.

Adding to Villa's challenges, Leon Bailey's hamstring injury might rule him out for the Everton match and the Champions League opener. Diego Carlos is another potential absentee, further limiting Emery's defensive options.

Glimmers of hope for Villa

Despite the injury setbacks, there are positive signs for Aston Villa. Emi Buendia is on the verge of returning to first-team action, having scored in an EFL Trophy match against Fleetwood Town. Jaden Philogene could also be available, offering Emery additional attacking options.

Everton's rocky start

Everton's season has started on a sour note, with the team languishing at the bottom of the Premier League table after three consecutive defeats. Their defence has been particularly vulnerable, conceding 10 goals in these matches. Key defender Jarrad Branthwaite will be out until late September, compounding their defensive woes.

Manager Sean Dyche is also dealing with injuries to summer signings Armando Broja and Youssef Chermiti, along with Nathan Patterson, all of whom will miss the Villa Park clash. Captain Seamus Coleman is doubtful after sustaining an injury on international duty with Ireland.

The Aston Villa-Everton fixture is steeped in history, with Villa having the upper hand, winning 23 of their 54 encounters since 1995. Recent matches have been closely contested, with each team securing two wins in their last five meetings.

A victory for Aston Villa would propel them to 9 points from their first four games, solidifying their position among the league's early leaders. For Everton, this match is crucial to jump-start their season and escape the relegation zone.