Gerrard boosted by squad update ahead of Man United
Aston Villa boss Steven Gerrard issued an important and timely update regarding his first-team options ahead of the Villains away day at Old Trafford on Monday night in an FA Cup clash with Manchester United.
The legendary Liverpool midfielder is set to welcome back multiple players into the fold, including star striker Ollie Watkins according to Ben Dinnery.
“Ollie Watkins is due back with the group on Saturday, so that will be a welcome addition. Tyrone Mings comes back from suspension – he’s fit, well and available, » reveals Steven Gerrard. “Ashley Young’s got an outside chance. »
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— Ben Dinnery (@BenDinnery) January 6, 2022
Added to Watkins, key center-back Tyrone Mings returns from his suspension, while veteran utility man Ashley Young could feature as he progresses after suffering a fractured toe.
“Ashley’s got a frustrating one where he’s still got a little bit of discomfort in his fractured toe, but he’s doing everything he can to get back as quick as he can. The rest is as it was.”
Kortney Hause looks set to also add his name to the list of returnees as well despite feeling tightness in the aftermath of the clash against Brentford.
Care provided to recovering Leon Bailey
Gerrard also spoke about Jamaican international Leon Bailey as the ~£27million summer signing from Bayer Leverkusen continues his recovery after suffering a thigh strain that has kept him out of action since 1 December.
“We’re four and a bit weeks post-injury and he’s progressing well, stepping up his rehab -he’s focused. It was an injury in a similar area to the first one, so we have to be careful and respect that.”
The care provided by Gerrard and the Villa medical teams hints at the level of importance that Bailey could well be given under Gerrard once he returns to full fitness.
BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 18: Leon Bailey of Aston Villa is congratulated by Tyrone Mings and teammates after his corner-kick led to their team’s second goal, an own goal scored by Lucas Digne of Everton (not pictured), during the Premier League match between Aston Villa and Everton at Villa Park on September 18, 2021 in Birmingham, England. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)
Bailey started well at Villa Park after his arrival, registering 1-goal and 2-assists in his first four appearances before going on a five-match run without a single goal contribution.
Still, the 24-year-old has shown moments of class since his summer move and should fit in nicely under a manager who champions attacking football.
