Aston Villa have been without Ezri Konsa in their last two Premier League games, but Dean Smith recently revealed to Birmingham Live that the 23-year-old should return in time to face Crystal Palace on Boxing Day despite fears that he is not quite 100%.
The manager outlined: “Ezri’s still ill. If anyone has a slight illness, we all worry. He should be fine for Crystal Palace.”
Konsa had been a regular at centre-back when fit, but he missed Villa’s 0-0 draw with Burnley and 3-0 win over West Bromwich Albion due to being unwell (Transfermarkt).
Although he will likely be available for selection on Boxing Day, the 23-year-old may not instantly return to the starting lineup. Kortney Hause has impressed in Konsa’s absence and is likely to keep his spot alongside Tyrone Mings.
READ ASTON VILLA VERDICT
Villa are unbeaten in their last three league games and boast consecutive clean sheets, so they’re not struggling without the former Brentford man. Hause drew praise from many supporters after the Burnley game and was solid against West Brom, so he’s not likely to lose his place.
While the Claret and Blues are winning games and shutting out their opponents, Smith isn’t going to make unnecessary changes to his backline, so Konsa might have to be patient for his chance to come back into the team.
In other news, Dean Smith makes a confident declaration about Ross Barkley ahead of Aston Villa’s meeting with Crystal Palace
