Aston Villa will be without Birkir Bjarnason for the visit of Bolton Wanderers on Friday but winger Albert Adomah is back in contention.
As reported on the club’s official Twitter account, the Iceland international midfielder has sustained a groin issue which sidelines him for this weekend’s clash in a big blow.
It is further added that speedster Adomah has however returned to full training in a time boost following a knee complaint, with the winger now available for selection once again v Bolton.
?? Injury update: Birkir Bjarnason will miss out against @OfficialBWFC due to a groin problem. Albert Adomah, who had a knee issue, has trained all week and will be back in contention
WATCH NOW ? https://t.co/tLenuBv8VE#PartOfThePride #AVFC pic.twitter.com/mSydgbLlRA
— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) November 1, 2018
OPINION
It is a big loss for Villa that Bjarnason will be missing against Bolton, with the Iceland international having been a big part of their midfield in recent weeks. He had begun to form a nice little partnership with John McGinn in the centre of the park, and it will be interesting to see who Dean Smith picks in his place on Friday. His choice is likely to be between Conor Hourihane, who poses a greater goal threat than any other centre midfielder in the squad, or Glenn Whelan, who brings a wealth of experience to the role. Having Adomah back will be a boost however, with Villa struggling in attack since Smith took the reins. That being said, it is unlikely that the 30-year-old will be thrown straight back into the starting lineup, with Smith having several other quality options in that area. Opponents Bolton are having a similar season to Villa at the moment, and this is set to be an exciting match at Villa Park.