Aston Villa will be without Matty Cash and four other key players for their FA Cup tie against Newcastle United on Saturday evening, with kick-off scheduled for 5:45 pm.
Cash, who missed Villa’s midweek Premier League win over Brighton due to a “small injury,” has not recovered in time to feature against the Magpies. Speaking earlier in the week, manager Unai Emery acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the Polish international’s fitness:
“He was injured, with a small injury. I don’t know if he will be available for Saturday. Each day is important for how he is progressing.”
Despite this setback, Emery stressed that the squad has the versatility to cope with the absences.
“We have enough players to replace as a midfielder, to replace as well, full-back, Andrés [García] and Matty Cash, with the players we have,” Emery explained.
Douglas Luiz, who returned to Villa after a loan spell at Nottingham Forest, could make his fourth consecutive start in midfield. Meanwhile, January signing Alysson may feature in his first start for the club.
Other Injuries Affecting Aston Villa vs Newcastle United
Emery’s squad will be further impacted by four additional absences:
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John McGinn – The Scotland international has been sidelined with a knee injury since January and is not expected back until April.
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Youri Tielemans – The midfielder suffered an ankle injury during Villa’s win at St James’ Park last month and remains out for several weeks.
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Boubacar Kamara – Kamara’s knee injury could rule him out for the rest of the season, with Emery confirming he is unlikely to return before the campaign ends.
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Andres Garcia – A hamstring problem will keep Garcia out this weekend, though there is optimism he could return soon.
What This Means for Villa
Saturday’s FA Cup clash will test Villa’s depth, with Emery forced to adapt his lineup around these injuries. The Spaniard has experience dealing with squads stretched by absences and believes his team can still perform despite the challenges.
With several new signings and returning players like Douglas Luiz available, Aston Villa will look to maintain their positive momentum at Villa Park while navigating a tricky injury situation.
