Ezri Konsa & Leon Bailey in line for Aston Villa return against Chelsea | OneFootball

Aston Villa could receive a crucial boost ahead of their Premier League clash with Chelsea as both Ezri Konsa and Leon Bailey are in contention for a return to the squad following their respective injury lay-offs.

Konsa is a key figure in Villa’s defensive line but has missed the last two fixtures against Liverpool and Ipswich Town after sustaining an injury in the FA Cup victory over Tottenham Hotspur.

Meanwhile, Bailey has been absent over the past few weeks, leaving manager Unai Emery short-staffed in attack.

However, both could now be available for selection as Villa look to strengthen their squad for a pivotal encounter at Villa Park.

Speaking ahead of the Villa versus Chelsea match, Emery provided an update on the pair’s fitness. “We are going to train later,” he said (via the Birmingham Mail) when asked about Konsa’s availability. “He did the composition work with the players. I will test him, and in case he is feeling good, he will be in the squad.”

Bailey’s situation appears similar, with the Jamaican winger also in line for a potential return. “Leon Bailey trained yesterday, and it’s the same like Konsa. In case he trains normally, he will be available in the squad,” Emery confirmed.

However, Villa will still be without Ross Barkley, who continues his recovery from a calf injury suffered in the FA Cup third-round win over West Ham. “Barkley is a little bit slower than we wanted, and we planned,” Emery admitted. “He is close to starting with us in a few days.”

Villa’s injury concerns have been mounting, with Boubacar Kamara and Amadou Onana also sidelined for at least two to three more weeks. Matty Cash, who returned against Liverpool, could start against Chelsea.

A win against Chelsea would be a significant result for Villa, who have struggled in recent years against the Blues at home. Having only beaten Chelsea twice in their last 11 Premier League meetings at Villa Park, Emery’s side will be eager to turn the tide and close the gap between the two teams.

Chelsea are there for the taking if Villa bring their A-game. The Blues have won only three of their past ten games, looking lethargic even in victory. The Villans should be eyeing a win at home.