Ezri Konsa injury means two Aston Villa youngsters could now step up – but there’s one clear winner

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Ezri Konsa picked up a knock on international duty as England beat Greece 3-0 in their first of two International friendlies meaning his starting spot hangs in the balance.

Konsa’s latest England injury means he more than likely means won’t feature in Villa’s upcoming game against Crystal Palace, in which Unai Emery will look to end the Villans’ dreadful run of form which has left them winless in five in all competitions.

Konsa has filled in at right back for the majority of the season so far with varying success, in the absence of the more natural right back Matty Cash who has faced injury problems of his own.

With both Konsa and Cash out, Villa could be forced to place trust in two of their younger options both of whom have played Premier League minutes so far this season.

Kosta Nedelijkovic or Lamar Bogarde to step up in Ezri Konsa’s absence?

Kosta Nedelijkovic featured in the 2-0 loss to Arsenal coming on after 16 minutes to replace an injured Cash and looked competent in trying to contain Gabriel Martinelli. He impressed in his small but important role despite the disappointing defeat to a fellow Champions League team.

Lamar Bogarde featured the week after starting the 1-2 win against Leicester and then started again in a 3-2 win against Everton. Bogarde looked assured and confident in both games with two wins against tough teams.

Both have featured in cameo appearances throughout the season, but is it time for the Aston Villa manager to trust one of his young talents?

When comparing both players in their minimal game time so far this season. According to data from Fbref.com, both players are very closely matched despite the difference in minutes played.

Kosta Nedelijkovic should be Unai Emery’s choice

Both have strengths and weaknesses, Nedelijkovic is seemingly stronger in one-on-one defending situations as he displayed against Gabriel Martinelli, whereas Bogarde is slightly better on the ball and more of a danger going forward.

Against a Palace side who are without key men Eberechi Eze, Adam Warton and Daichi Kamada, Villa should be looking to take the game to Palace and with the attacking talent having slightly more license to roam, the defensive cover has to be reliable.

Therefore, Nedelijkovic has to be given the opportunity to build on his good performance against Arsenal, he is strong in the tackle, competent on the ball and has the ability to be moulded into exactly the style of right back Emery desires, especially as he’s just 18 years old.