Aston Villa-linked winger Ruben Vargas has been warned that his talent alone will not secure a place in Sevilla’s team ahead of Friday’s meeting with Unai Emery’s side.
Luis García Plaza delivered the message in an interview with ABC earlier this week, making his expectations clear as the Switzerland international works towards a return from injury.
As reproduced by Spanish newspaper AS, the Sevilla manager said, translated from Spanish: “Rubén knows that if he doesn’t run, he doesn’t play under me.”
Villa were linked with Vargas during the summer, when our assessment of the Sevilla winger examined his potential suitability for Emery’s squad.
Those previous links do not establish that Villa are currently pursuing a deal.
Ruben Vargas faces Sevilla selection challenge
Vargas completed part of Tuesday’s training session with his teammates as he continued his rehabilitation programme, according to Mundo Deportivo.
That represented progress, although partial training does not confirm his availability to face Villa.
Our latest Sevilla team-news update also covered Kike Salas returning to full group work.
For Vargas, the manager’s warning sets out what will be required once he is available. Regaining fitness is one hurdle; meeting García Plaza’s demands without possession is another.
Friday’s friendly could offer a useful opportunity if Sevilla consider him ready, but his involvement remains unconfirmed.
The Antonio Puerta Trophy match kicks off at 7.30pm BST at the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán.
