Aston Villa suffer early injury scare ahead of Sunderland clash following international withdrawal
Sunderland return to Premier League action at Villa Park next Saturday
Aston Villa have suffered an early injury scare ahead of Sunderland's visit to Villa Park in the Premier League.
Midfielder Johan Manzambi, who has been a regular in Unai Emery's side since his move from Freiburg in the summer, has been forced to withdraw from the Switzerland squad due to a calf injury that has not healed as quickly as his national team had hoped.
While it is not yet clear whether he will be able to feature next Saturday, he will return to his club on Friday for further treatment.
"Johan Manzambi has been ruled out of the upcoming UEFA Nations League matches against Slovenia and Scotland," a statement from the Switzerland national team said. The midfielder joined the national team camp on Monday with a calf injury. Despite intensive medical treatment and further examinations, his condition has not improved sufficiently, making him unavailable for either game.
“In agreement with Aston Villa, Manzambi will therefore return to his club on Friday. No further players will be called up. The national team squad now consists of 26 players.”
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Emery will welcome Matty Cash back to the squad for Sunderland's visit following a one-game suspension, while Aaron Wan-Bissaka could also be back in contention. Matteo Ruggeri remains a doubt, while Amadou Onana is a long-term absentee.
Sunderland of course have injury issues of their own, with Granit Xhaka and Brian Brobbey both forced to withdraw from their national squads. Dan Ballard, Habib Diarra and Romaine Mundle all also remain sidelined, though Omar Alderete will be available again after suspension.
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