Aston Villa: Unai Emery reveals John McGinn injury latest before Chelsea clash | OneFootball

Bad news for Villa ahead of crucial Premier League fixture against Chelsea

McGinn sustained a knee injury during Villa’s 1-0 home defeat to Everton in mid-January, subsequently missing the last nine games in all competitions.

The Scotland international underwent surgery in January and the timeframe regarding a return to action was a maximum of eight weeks.

However, McGinn, last week, raised hopes of making a comeback ahead of schedule.

He said: “I’ve been trying to stay under the radar a bit, trying to get back fit as quickly as possible. The recovery is going well, surgery was pretty straightforward and it’s been good.

“I got my head around it quick. I’ve been fortunate in my career to not have many serious injuries so this one was easier to accept.

“It’s been tough to watch but I’m feeling ready to get back in and in good shape for that.

“I’m well on my way and hopefully be back before then (eight weeks), maybe another two or three weeks.”

Sidelined: John McGinn

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Emery will be keen to have the McGinn back as soon as possible with Villa’s form in the league beginning to falter as the battle for Champions League qualification heats up.

Villa are next in action against fellow top-four hopefuls Chelsea on Wednesday evening and the Spaniard has given an update on his midfielder.

Speaking on Tuesday, the Aston Villa boss said: “We need other leaders. We need change to singing about ‘Super Aston Villa’!

“John McGinn is very important, but he is not available tomorrow. He is progressively getting better.

“We have enough players to keep our consistency and performance. I believe, of course - even when we are not achieving it - in them.”