Match Coverage

Aston Villa have ‘optimism’ key Unai Emery star will return v Luton amid injury update

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Aston Villa face Luton Town on Saturday afternoon, looking to cement their position in the Premier League’s top four.

Unai Emery’s men are in excellent form and produced a scintillating display during their 4-2 win over Nottingham Forest.

A Douglas Luiz brace and goals from Ollie Watkins and Leon Bailey saw the Villans dismantle Nuno Espirito Santo’s side and firm up their position in the Champions League places.

Fulham FC v Aston Villa - Premier League
Photo by David Horton – CameraSport/Getty Images

Up next is a trip to Bedfordshire, and Emery is currently sweating on the fitness of one of his star defenders.

Pau Torres Aston Villa injury update

Pau Torres was forced off during halftime of Villa’s win over Forest.

The Spaniard only returned to the starting XI for the away win over Fulham for his first start of 2024.

An update has emerged on the Spaniard’s fitness ahead of the trip to Kenilworth Road.

The Express and Star report that Villa have “optimism” that the 27-year-old will return for Saturday’s fixture.

It’s believed the initial prognosis is favourable, and Emery is hopeful he will be fit to play. After this news, a massive sigh of relief will be heard at Villa Park.

Torres has been impressive since completing his £31million move in the summer.

And considering the injuries to Diego Carlos, Ezri Konsa, and Tyrone Mings, the 27-year-old must remain fit for the run-in.

Talking after the win over Forest, Emery insisted the Spaniard’s injury was pretty minor.

“He had a small pain, hopefully not injured,” he told Birmingham Live.

“We decided not to take a risk with him. He was progressively feeling worse but not feeling really injured.

“Of course, when Calum Chambers stayed here after the transfer window, I told him’, You are here now to help us practice, and in case we need you, you need to be ready to play’.

“He played the second half, and he was very important. The team felt comfortable in the second half after the first 15 minutes and dominated the match with him.”