Aston Villa welcome Everton to Villa Park on Saturday afternoon and Sky Sports say Emiliano Buendia could be in contention of playing after completing his 10-day quarantine in Croatia.
The 24-year-old was a regular in Villa’s starting lineup before the international break, but he will be given an assessment before a decision is made by Dean Smith. Buendia’s fitness may have dwindled due to the lack of action of late.
Argentina’s meeting with Brazil was suspended midgame and Buendia left South America for Croatia – a country on the UK’s green list. The former Norwich City wide-man will return to the UK on Saturday morning, hours before the Everton game, so he could technically play.
Supporters on social media are desperate to get Buendia involved, but Smith might be cautious. Villa lined up in a 3-5-2 formation against Chelsea, meaning no natural wingers, so Buendia could be afforded a rest.
Leon Bailey, Anwar El Ghazi and Bertrand Traore made the bench in Saturday’s 3-0 defeat, so Smith won’t be short of depth regardless. Buendia is a special player who could turn the tide, so it would be a boost if he made the squad.
In other news, fans on social media hope Emi Martinez faces Everton after positive update
