After a torrid run of luck, Aston Villa could finally have some positive news on the injury front.
Unai Emery has six players unavailable, with some high-profile names ruled out recently.
Midfielder Boubacar Kamara has been ruled out for the rest of the season after sustaining an ACL injury during Villa’s 2-1 Premier League defeat to Manchester United.
In defence, Ezri Konsa is sidelined for several weeks after spraining his knee against Sheffield United. Diego Carlos is the latest to head to the treatment room after injuring his hamstring during training this week.
The lack of defensive options could even see Calum Chambers return from the wilderness after being told he could leave the club towards the end of January.
Aston Villa need an injury boost – and a post on the club’s X account could be very well received.
Tyrone Mings returns to Aston Villa training
Tyrone Mings sustained a significant knee injury during Villa’s first game of the season against Newcastle United.
Shortly after, the club released a statement: “The defender has undergone scans and will unfortunately require surgery ahead of a lengthy rehabilitation process.”
However, Mings is now close to a return.
Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano shared an image of the defender on Thursday, with the club confirming the defender is back in training.
“Huge news for Aston Villa as club announces Tyrone Mings’ initial return to training, hoping to be ready and 100% fit as soon as possible,” he wrote (via his personal X account).
“Positive one for Unai Emery after recent problems with injured players.”
This certainly is a positive for Emery. With defenders dropping like flies, Mings’ return is significant. If the 30-year-old can replicate his form from last season, Villa’s Champions League qualification hopes will be massively strengthened.
The former Bournemouth defender featured in 35 Premier League matches and, alongside Ezri Konsa, formed a formidable partnership.
“Without Tyrone and Emiliano, the squad is weaker,” Emery told Sky Sports in August.
With Emery having to rotate his back-four more frequently, Villa’s backline hasn’t been as settled as last season.
If Konsa and Mings can return, there will undoubtedly be a good feeling heading into what promises to be a busy end to the 2023/24 season.
With 12 matches remaining, Emery will be hoping for Mings to play an essential part between now and the end of the campaign.
