AliousEmery Hit by Midfield Injury Blow Ahead of Sunderland — But Key Star Returns
Aston Villa boss Unai Emery has admitted he will be forced to go into this weekend’s Premier League clash against Sunderland without several of his key midfield players.
The Spaniard confirmed that **Youri Tielemans, Amadou Onana, Andrés García and Ross Barkley are all set to miss out, leaving Villa stretched thin in the centre of the park.
Despite the absences, there was a glimmer of hope for Emery as **Boubacar Kamara** made his long-awaited comeback in the midweek Carabao Cup tie against Brentford. Having featured for 20 minutes in that match, the Frenchman is now expected to start against Sunderland.
Speaking ahead of Sunday’s fixture, Emery stressed the importance of balancing injuries with emerging talent:
> “We are so happy when players return from injury. Of course, losing some is difficult, but others are stepping up,” he explained.
The manager singled out Lamare Bogarde, praising the youngster’s rapid development after a string of standout performances:
> “Lamare is really progressing and has played two fantastic games. With Kamara’s experience and qualities alongside him, I feel comfortable and confident.”
In a further boost, Victor Lindelöf could also make the squad after rejoining training, giving Villa extra defensive depth as they prepare for a tough test at the Stadium of Light.
With Sunderland eager to make their mark and Villa dealing with a mix of injuries and comebacks, Sunday’s clash promises to be a fascinating contest that could shape both teams’ early-season momentum.
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