João Gomes remains a fitness question for Aston Villa as attention turns from Wednesday’s cup victory to Saturday’s trip to Tottenham.
Unai Emery must assess his midfield options, while Spurs expect Pedro Porro to return. There is also a reported goalkeeper scouting development involving River Plate.
Here are the main Villa talking points for Thursday 17 September.
João Gomes awaits fitness decision
Gomes has a calf problem, with Emery outlining checks on Thursday and Friday before deciding whether he can feature against Tottenham.
Our João Gomes injury update explains the assessment process. A return remains possible, but the midfielder has not been confirmed available.
Ross Barkley, John McGinn and Lamare Bogarde started against Coventry, giving Emery alternatives if Gomes needs more time.
Pedro Porro expected back for Tottenham
Villa’s opponents could regain an option at right-back.
Pedro Porro is expected to return to Tottenham’s squad after missing two matches with a muscular problem. His anticipated availability does not guarantee a starting place.
That leaves both managers with personnel decisions before Saturday’s lunchtime meeting.
Santiago Beltrán scouting claim emerges
Away from match preparations, Villa and Manchester City have reportedly sent scouts to watch River Plate goalkeeper Santiago Beltrán.
Sport Witness’s account of the Argentine reporting also details River’s attempts to extend his contract.
The claim concerns scouting. It does not establish a Villa bid or an agreement to sign the goalkeeper.
Saturday’s viewing details
Tottenham host Villa at 12:30 BST on Saturday 19 September.
UK supporters can watch on TNT Sports 1, with streaming listed through HBO Max. Our Tottenham vs Aston Villa viewing guide explains the options.
The next significant development for Villa will be clarification of Emery’s available squad before he selects his team.
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