---
title: "Tammy Abraham stakes Aston Villa starting claim with Coventry double"
canonical: "https://readastonvilla.com/2026/09/16/coventry-vs-aston-villa-carabao-cup-report/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "James Chettle"
section: "Aston Villa News"
published: "2026-09-16T22:10:04Z"
modified: "2026-09-22T11:01:43Z"
---

# Tammy Abraham stakes Aston Villa starting claim with Coventry double

Tammy Abraham has strengthened his case to start Aston Villa’s next Premier League game after scoring twice against Coventry City.

His double helped secure a [3-1 Carabao Cup victory](https://www.theguardian.com/football/2026/sep/16/coventry-aston-villa-carabao-cup-third-round-match-report), giving Unai Emery a selection decision before Saturday’s trip to Tottenham.

The timing matters. Nicolas Jackson was withdrawn at half-time against Nottingham Forest, with Abraham replacing him. Four days later, Abraham has a two-goal performance to put forward.

That does not guarantee a change up front. It does give Emery a stronger reason to consider one.

## Tammy Abraham gives Emery a reason to change

Abraham opened the scoring after seven minutes and added Villa’s third in the 59th minute against Coventry.

Those goals represent the clearest argument he could make when handed a starting opportunity. Emery now has to decide whether that performance earns another start or keeps Abraham ready as an alternative.

There is an important distinction around Jackson’s previous withdrawal. As our report on [his substitution against Nottingham Forest](https://readastonvilla.com/2026/09/12/nicolas-jackson-substitution-aston-villa-nottingham-forest/) explained, Emery was concerned about the risk of a second booking.

That decision should not be treated as confirmation that Jackson has lost his place. Abraham’s cup performance, however, adds a footballing reason to revisit the selection.

## Tottenham offers the next test

The argument for starting Abraham is straightforward: reward a striker who has taken his opportunity and let him build on it.

The counterargument is that one cup match cannot settle the position. Emery must judge which forward best suits the Tottenham game, alongside recovery from Wednesday’s tie.

There is also a useful option if Jackson retains his place. Abraham would approach his next appearance with two goals behind him, making the competition for minutes more meaningful.

Supporters can check our [Aston Villa TV guide](https://readastonvilla.com/aston-villa-on-tv/) for coverage of the Tottenham fixture.

For Abraham, the next step is turning Wednesday’s contribution into sustained involvement. He has supplied a clear reason for Emery to consider him. The weekend team sheet will show how much weight the manager gives it.