Aston Villa boss Emery on another Martinez injury and draw with Nottingham Forest | OneFootball

Aston Villa boss Unai Emery clarified that a calf problem was the reason for Emi Martinez’s late withdrawal from the clash with Nottingham Forest.

Villa drew 1-1 at the City Ground, with Villa taking the lead through a Murillo own goal before Neco Williams equalised later in the first half.

Martinez was named in the starting 11 but pulled out before kick-off, with Marco Bizot replacing him.

It is not the first time Martinez has pulled out with a calf issue this season and Emery says the Argentine had to do so again.

 “He was feeling something in his calf and was not feeling comfortable to play,” the Villa boss said.

Reflecting on the draw, Emery added: “The first half was equal but we dominated and had good chances to score. I am so proud of how the players did.

“Of course we had three or four chances to score, and we conceded the momentum to them a few times. One point is not enough, but this is the way we want to play in the next weeks in the Premier League and Europa League.”