Unai Emery has handed West Ham United some thoroughly unwelcome news ahead of [Sunday’s clash with Aston Villa](https://www.claretandhugh.info/aston-villa-v-west-ham-preview-team-news-predicted-line-ups/).
Just when it looked like Villa might be without key personnel, things have taken a turn for the better. Playmaker Youri Tielemans is recovering quicker than expected and could now feature against the Hammers.
Speaking ahead of the game, Emery confirmed the midfielder has returned to training and is progressing well after his injury lay-off. While he stopped short of guaranteeing Tielemans a place in the squad, his inclusion now appears a real possibility.
The Belgian has missed Villa’s last 11 matches with an ankle issue, but his return would be a significant boost for the hosts as they head into their final fixture before the March international break.
Villa could also welcome back Matty Cash, who made a substitute appearance in midweek and is pushing for a start. However, Boubacar Kamara remains sidelined with a longer-term injury.
From a West Ham perspective, the timing could hardly be worse. With Crysencio Summerville already ruled out, the Hammers look set to face a Villa side getting stronger at precisely the wrong moment.
As recently as last weekend, both Cash and Tielemans appeared unlikely to feature — now, suddenly, the challenge facing West Ham looks that bit tougher.