Aston Villa coach, Dean Smith provides injury updates ahead of EPL clash against Chelsea

After the international break, on Saturday, English Premier League action will return as Chelsea play host to Aston Villa as both teams battle for the three points.

Aston Villa have had something of a mixed start to 2021/22, which has not been helped by injuries to key players.

Dean Smith’s side began their Premier League campaign by losing 3-2 to a newly promoted Watford side.

Villa were then able to bounce back by picking up a 2-0 win over Newcastle in the league and then smashing six past Barrow in the 2^nd round of the League Cup.

However, in their last clash before the international break, the Villains were held to a 1-1 draw by newly-promoted Brentford.

Aston Villa now face the daunting task of traveling to a Chelsea side who are very much one of the favourites to win the Premier League this season.

Dean Smith provides injury updates/ Speaks on Martinez & Buendia

Ahead of the clash at Stamford Bridge, Dean Smith held his pre-match press conference on Friday.

Smith discussed a number of topics in his press conference, including injury news.

And, it does look to be largely good news for Villa ahead of Chelsea, with Leon Bailey back to full fitness, whilst Bertrand Traore – who missed out vs Newcastle and Brentford – has been training over the last couple of days as well.

“We should be welcoming Ollie Watkins back. We’ve also got Leon Bailey back to full fitness now.”

“Bertrand Traore has trained the last couple of days as well. John McGinn and Jacob Ramsey have recovered from their Covid-19 situations too.”

Smith also confirmed that Emiliano Martinez and Emi Buendia – who travelled to red-list countries during the break with Argentina – are back in a green zone country and are working hard to get ready for the clash with Everton:

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