Aston Villa injury latest ahead of trip to Stadium of Light

Aston Villa travel to Sunderland this weekend still searching for their first Premier League win of the season, with Unai Emery juggling a growing injury list.

Villa are winless in their last four league games and are yet to score a single goal in the top flight, a frustrating run that has raised questions about their cutting edge in attack.

There was at least some encouragement in midweek as they found the net in the Carabao Cup against Brentford, but Emery knows his side must quickly translate that into league form if they are to get their campaign back on track.

Injury List Latest

Player - Youri Tielemans
Comments: Emery confirmed the calf problem is “better than we expected” after he was forced off against Everton.
Potential return: One to two weeks.

Player - Victor Lindelof
Comments: Picked up a “small injury” and missed the Brentford cup tie. Emery described it as a fresh setback.
Potential return: Unclear — remains a doubt for Sunderland.

Player - Boubacar Kamara
Comments: Recently back from a hamstring injury and made his return off the bench against Brentford. Emery called it a “major boost.”
Potential return: Available now, should feature against Sunderland.

Player - Amadou Onana
Comments: Suffered a hamstring injury before the international break but is “close to coming back into the fray,” according to Emery.
Potential return: Imminent, though may be eased back gradually.

Player - Ross Barkley
Comments: Match fitness and a personal issue have slowed his return. Emery admitted he is still short of sharpness.
Potential return: Likely weeks away from being ready for regular minutes.

Looking Ahead

With Tielemans and Lindelof doubtful, Emery will again be forced to shuffle his midfield and defensive options against Sunderland. The return of Kamara provides a timely boost, while Onana could also be in contention if he proves his fitness. Barkley remains a longer-term absentee as he works his way back.

Villa’s struggles in front of goal mean the pressure will be on their attacking players to finally make a breakthrough in the league. Emery will hope the cup performance at Brentford is the spark needed to kickstart their campaign — and three points at the Stadium of Light would be the perfect place to do it.