Aston Villa stars back in training after hamstring setbacks

Diego Carlos and Jhon Duran have returned to training, a significant step in their recovery from hamstring injuries. Their absence has been a major blow for the team, but their presence on the training pitch brings renewed hope for the remainder of the season.

Diego Carlos, the Brazilian centre-back, suffered his injury during a training session last month. Known for his no-nonsense defending and leadership qualities, his absence has been keenly felt in Villa's defence. With his return to group training, Carlos is poised to add much-needed stability and organisation to the backline.

Jhon Duran, the young Colombian striker, has had a similarly frustrating time, sidelined by a hamstring injury sustained in a draw against Everton back in January. His pace and directness in attack were a valuable asset for Villa. Now, with Duran back in training, the team will be hoping he can rediscover his scoring touch as they push for crucial results.

The return of these two key players comes at a crucial juncture in Aston Villa's season. They face a significant test in the Europa Conference League round of 16 with a two-legged tie against Ajax on March 7 and 14. Success in those matches will be crucial to their European ambitions.

Following that, Aston Villa navigates a demanding Premier League schedule. Clashes against Tottenham (March 10), West Ham, Wolves, and a potentially decisive match against Manchester City (April 3) loom large. In each of these fixtures, Villa needs positive results to secure their place in the coveted top-four positions.

The season continues with matches against Brentford, Arsenal, Bournemouth, Chelsea, Brighton, Liverpool, and Crystal Palace. Every game carries significance as Villa look to secure a return to European competition next season.

The return of both Carlos and Duran is a testament to their work ethic and the dedication of Aston Villa's medical team. Now back on the training pitch, the focus will be on regaining match fitness and seamlessly integrating them into Unai Emery's lineup.

The return of key players provides a jolt of optimism, but the fixtures ahead will demand the team's absolute best. With renewed depth in their squad, Villa's pursuit of European glory resumes. The next few weeks will be defining, and the contributions of Carlos and Duran could prove to be the difference-maker in reaching their ambitious goals.