Throughout the lockdown period, Aston Villa were concerned that a cancellation of the season could lead to their relegation from the Premier League.
However, possessing a game in hand due to their participation in the EFL Cup final, Villa will return to action against Sheffield United with an opportunity to move out of the bottom three.
Should Dean Smith's team get the better of the Blades at Villa Park, they will move into 16th position, ahead of West Ham United, Watford and Bournemouth.
Here, Sports Mole rounds up Villa's injury and suspension news ahead of their next contest, set for June 17.
© Reuters
Status: Out
Type of injury: Knee
Possible return date: Unknown
Wesley Moraes has spent much of lockdown back in his native Brazil, recovering from the serious knee injury which he sustained in December. Although the striker is unlikely to play any part against the Blades, the club-record addition is making good progress with his rehabilitation.
© Reuters
Status: Out
Type of injury: Knee
Possible return date: Unknown
While Tom Heaton suffered a near-identical injury to Wesley in the same match, the goalkeeper remains further away from a return. The veteran has acknowledged that he faces a race against time to play any part of the extended season.
© Reuters
Status: Major doubt
Type of injury: Achilles
Possible return date: June 17 (vs. Sheff Utd)
On a more positive note regarding their goalkeepers, Villa may be able to welcome back Jed Steer from an Achilles injury picked up in November. The backup stopper has revealed that lockdown restrictions have allowed him to build up more strength in the area before returning to the training pitch.
VILLA'S SUSPENSION LIST
Villa have no players suspended for this match.
