Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez missed the win over Bologna due to a muscle issue | OneFootball

Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez missed the club’s Europa League win over Bologna due to muscle pain, according to journalist Jacob Tanswell.

Summer signing Marco Bizot replaced Martinez. The Dutchman did an admirable job as the Villains sealed a much-needed win.

Thankfully, it is ‘not thought to be serious’, meaning the Martinez could be back in goal for Aston Villa soon.

In Martinez’s absence, Bizot delivered a stellar performance to keep the clean sheet versus Bologna, making seven saves.

Bizot had lost the Premier League starting berth to Martinez for the Sunderland game, but reclaimed it due to his setback.

The 34-year-old made up for his atrocious showing against Crystal Palace.

The importance of both goalkeepers cannot be overstated for Villa. They lack a cutting edge in front of goal, which means every defensive lapse could prove costly.

Martinez has built his reputation on reliability in the Premier League, while Bizot’s sharp reflexes against Bologna showed he can be trusted when called upon.

With Champions League football stretching the squad and a demanding league campaign ahead, the Villains need consistency and calmness in their last line of defence.

The partnership between these two keepers, whether through competition or rotation, must set the standard for the rest of the team.

If Martinez regains full fitness quickly and Bizot maintains his level, Villa’s defensive unit can become the platform for grinding out results.

Until the attack finds rhythm, Emery will rely on his goalkeepers to keep Villa’s ambitions alive on both domestic and European fronts.