Unai Emery cautions Aston Villa and awaits injury updates before Sunderland visit | OneFootball

Unai Emery has cautioned Aston Villa that their push for success still requires more work as he awaits fitness updates on two players before Sunday’s home meeting with Sunderland. According to Sunderland Echo, the head coach wants focus maintained despite a demanding schedule.

Villa are fourth in the Premier League ahead of the weekend and remain firmly in the Champions League race. They also advanced in the Europa League, beating Serie A side Bologna at home on Thursday to complete a 7-1 aggregate victory and set up a semi-final with Nottingham Forest.

After missing last weekend’s 1-1 draw with Forest, Emi Martinez started on Thursday, and he is expected to be assessed before a decision is made on facing the Black Cats. Jadon Sancho returned as a late substitute for Morgan Rogers during the final quarter of an hour, and his shoulder will also be monitored.

Brazilian prospect Alysson will miss Sunday’s game, targeting next weekend’s trip to Fulham. Boubacar Kamara is out for the season with a serious knee injury and will not feature against Sunderland.

Emery could rotate after a hectic week since the final international break and may freshen his starting 11. He has urged his players to channel the energy and momentum from Europe through the run-in.

Source: Sunderland Echo