Need to know
Aston Villa and Chelsea are set to be impacted by several high-profile absences, with Unai Emery facing doubts over Pau Torres, while Tyrone Mings, Ross Barkley and Evann Guessand will miss out
Pau Torres of Aston Villa looks on during the Premier League match against Leeds United
Pau Torres is a doubt for Aston Villa's clash with Chelsea
(Image: (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images))
Everything you need to know about Aston Villa and Chelsea injury doubts and absences for their Premier League meeting
Villa’s defensive doubts:Aston Villa face significant selection issues at the back with Pau Torres currently considered a doubt after managing a back problem. Tyrone Mings is also confirmed to be out of action as he continues to struggle with a thigh injury.
Barkley set to miss out: Midfielder Ross Barkley was ruled out for several months in a significant blow to Unai Emery's side. The former Chelsea man won't be available for a reunion with his old side, and is expected to be back around February.
International call-up and health concerns:Evann Guessand is unavailable for Villa due to his participation in the Africa Cup of Nations. Meanwhile, Harvey Elliott’s status is up in the air after he missed the previous match through illness - though he has been rarely used by Emery.
Chelsea double injury boost: Chelsea will welcome back both Liam Delap and Estevao to the matchday squad this Saturday. Both players have successfully recovered from their recent setbacks and are fully available for selection. Cole Palmer is also available to play the full 90 minutes, Enzo Maresca revealed.
Dario Essugo latest: Dario Essugo has officially re-joined Chelsea training sessions, marking a positive step in his recovery. Despite this progress, his actual match availability remains uncertain as the staff monitors his fitness levels.
Triple Chelsea absence: Chelsea will be without Romeo Lavia and long-term absentee Levi Colwill for the upcoming clash. Lavia remains sidelined with an injury, while Colwill continues his lengthy rehabilitation process for an ACL problem. Mykhailo Mudryk is still unavailable due to an ongoing suspension.