Dean Smith confirmed to VillaTV after Aston Villa’s 1-0 win over Leeds United that Emiliano Martinez’s groin tightened up in the second half which forced Ezri Konsa and Tyrone Mings to take goal kicks. Villa lock horns with Sheffield United on Wednesday evening, so the 28-year-old might be an injury doubt.
Smith said about Martinez: “His groin tightened up at the end. I’ve been there, taking goal kicks as a centre-back before. It’s a tough gig from the six-yard box up to the halfway line, but Ezri and Ty helped him out there. And as a team, I’m really pleased for them.”
The uncapped Argentine has made 24 appearances since joining Villa on a four-year deal from Arsenal last summer, conceding 26 goals and keeping 13 clean sheets. Martinez has shut out five clubs in 2021 alone (Transfermarkt) so he’s a signing of the season contender and influential player.
The 28-year-old has saved 79.1% of 115 shots on target faced and has conceded seven less than his expected goals amount (FBRef), so he would be a big loss if he’s unable to face the Blades. Smith does have Tom Heaton and Jed Steer to call upon between the sticks, but his groin problem may not be too serious that it rules him out of action.
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Martinez has been outstanding this season and particularly since the turn of the year. He’s kept five clean sheets from his last eight league appearances, so Smith will surely give him every chance to be fit for Wednesday.
