Aston Villa face RB Leipzig in the Champions League on Tuesday night, and Unai Emery has provided our latest team news.
After an excellent start to our European campaign, we’ve stumbled in our last two outings having taken just a point in games against Club Brugge and Juventus.
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As we look to strengthen our chances of qualifying directly for the next phase by finishing in the top eight, a win in Germany this week would be a huge boost, and so it’s hoped that we can return home with all three points and continue our winning run over the past week.
In order to have the best possible chance of doing that, Emery would certainly love to have a full-strength squad at his disposal to rotate as we need to keep everyone fit and avoid further injuries, but Leon Bailey suffered a setback this past weekend, while Jacob Ramsey remains sidelined.
The Villa boss has confirmed that both will miss our midweek clash, but there was a positive update on Bailey, who seemingly has avoided a severe setback, and could be in contention to face Nottingham Forest this weekend in the Premier League.
“It’s a small injury, he’s [Bailey] not available for tomorrow but we will wait to see on Saturday,” he told the media at his pre-match press conference. “Jacob Ramsey is progressing very well, but he is still weeks [before returning].”
That’s an important boost as despite Bailey’s struggle for top form so far this season, he remains a trusted option for Emery and a player capable of making a vital difference in the final third with his pace, creativity and eye for a goal.
An injury was the last thing that he needed as he has shown more positive signs in recent weeks, but it’s hoped that he can recover in time to make the squad for the weekend at least.
Time will tell how many changes Emery makes against RB Leipzig, but we’ll put out a strong team regardless, and hopefully our game plan puts us in a positive to secure a valuable victory.