João Gomes faces fitness checks before Aston Villa decide whether he can return against Tottenham on Saturday.
Unai Emery has confirmed the midfielder has a calf issue, leaving his availability uncertain for the Premier League trip.
Speaking after Wednesday’s victory at Coventry, Emery outlined plans to assess Gomes on Thursday and Friday.
The Villa manager said, in comments reported by My Old Man Said: “If it’s going well, he might be available for Saturday. It is uncertain for now.”
That leaves the possibility of a return open, but Gomes has not been cleared to play.
João Gomes assessment will shape Emery’s midfield options
The Brazilian’s fitness gives Emery another decision before selecting his team for Tottenham.
Villa used Lamare Bogarde, Ross Barkley and John McGinn in the starting line-up against Coventry. Barkley scored as Villa secured a 3-1 victory.
Gomes’ potential availability would add another midfield option, although passing the checks would not guarantee a starting place.
Emery’s comments also stop short of providing a longer recovery estimate. The immediate focus is whether the midfielder can be involved this weekend.
Villa also monitoring Marco Bizot
Gomes is not the only player with a fitness question before Saturday.
Marco Bizot came off at half-time against Coventry with a back problem. Our Bizot injury update covers the goalkeeper’s withdrawal.
Further information on both players will help clarify Villa’s options. Supporters can follow the wider squad picture through our Aston Villa injury guide.
The Tottenham match kicks off at 12:30 BST on Saturday 19 September.
