Aston Villa know that a win over Manchester United on Sunday will put them 11 points clear of the Reds in the Premier League. Erik ten Hag and his players need to prevent that from happening by gaining momentum by continuing their recent unbeaten run with another win.
The hosts will be able to welcome back Spain international Pau Torres, who is fit enough to make his first start in eight weeks after being an unused substitute in Villa’s midweek defeat to Chelsea which saw them crash out of the EFL Cup.
United fans will remember Torres from his days at Villarreal – when he was part of Unai Emery’s side that beat us in the Europa League final. However, the less said about that night the better because it still hurts.
Lucas Digne could make his first appearance in 2024 after recovering from a hamstring injury but they will be without Ezri Konso due to a sprained knee.
Villa goalkeeper Joe Gauci is also available after joining Villa on transfer deadline day – but was on international duty with Australia’s squad at the 2023 Asian Cup.
They are still without John Duran and long-term absentees Tyrone Mings and Emi Buendia.
“We have a new goalkeeper, Joe Gauci,” said head coach Unai Emery at Friday’s pre-match media conference, as per AVFC.co.uk.
“The players who had injuries are recovering, Lucas, Pau Torres.
“Ezri Konsa and Jhon Durán are still out.
“I think all the other players will be available for Sunday.”
When it comes to United, Lisandro Martinez’s injury against West Ham means he will miss around two months of action. It is a huge blow for United but we can’t let that ruin our momentum when we need to be in the Champions League next season.
Furthermore, Aaron Wan-Bissaka experienced another setback in training this week and is not ready to return yet. The other players that remain in the treatment room include Mason Mount, Tyrell Malacia and Anthony Martial.
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