An injury-hit Aston Villa have been handed a timely triple boost ahead of Saturday’s clash with Hull City, with Unai Emery providing updates on four sidelined players during his pre-match press conference.
Emery’s side have endured a difficult start to their Premier League campaign, losing both of their opening two fixtures. Brighton inflicted a heavy 4-0 defeat on Villa in their first match of the season.
That result was followed by a narrow 1-0 defeat to reigning champions Arsenal at Villa Park. Villa will now travel to face newly-promoted Hull, with three new players expected to be involved in the squad.
Aston Villa receive triple boost
Emery offered an update on four injured players during his pre-match press conference ahead of the trip to Hull.
Discussing Johan Manzambi, the Villa manager said: “He’s training with the group, and he’s progressively getting better.
“But he will need some more days for Tuesday in the Champions League, or for our next match against Nottingham Forest.”
Meanwhile, Joao Gomes will miss the trip due to suspension, while Brian Madjo is expected to remain out for a further couple of weeks, according to Ben Dinnery.
Amadou Onana is also continuing his recovery following reconstructive knee surgery and is not expected to feature for the Villans in the near future.
However, Villa are set to receive a significant boost, with three of their recent signings expected to either feature or travel with the squad for Saturday’s fixture.
Taylor Harwood-Bellis, Leon Goretza and Ibrahim Mbaye are all anticipated to make the trip.
Emery said: “I think the players are ready, and some players after we signed in the last week.
“They are going to be progressively better and better, understanding better our way to play.
“Tomorrow, hopefully we can do one step forward,” concluded the Villa boss.
Villa face Hull City with kick-off scheduled for 5:30pm BST. The match will be broadcast live on Sky Sports, with the presenters, pundits and commentators for the fixture available to view here.
