Both Sunderland and Aston Villa head into Sunday’s Premier League meeting at Villa Park with significant injury concerns, as six players are currently ruled out across the two squads and several others remain doubtful or being carefully managed.
With Unai Emery’s side pushing deep into European competition and Régis Le Bris continuing to manage a demanding season at Sunderland, squad rotation and fitness availability are set to play a major role in shaping the contest.
Aston Villa injury updates
Villa are juggling fitness issues alongside a busy schedule, though there are some positive returns.
Available / returning:
- Emiliano Martínez – Back available after missing recent league action with a minor issue
- Tyrone Mings – Returned to the squad after a minor injury concern
Fitness concerns / recent issues:
- Several Villa players are being carefully managed following midweek European involvement, with Emery expected to rotate depending on recovery levels.
Sunderland injury updates
Sunderland also have key absences, particularly in attacking and defensive depth, although there is positive news on one returning defender.
Available / returning:
- Dan Ballard – Back in full training after a hamstring issue, but likely to be eased in (bench at most)
Out:
- Nilson Angulo – Still sidelined, not expected to return in time for this match
Six players ruled out combined
Across both squads, the confirmed absences currently include:
- Nilson Angulo (Sunderland)
- Additional unnamed fitness absentees from both sides who are not expected to feature due to ongoing recovery or late-stage fitness concerns
Big selection decisions ahead
Both managers are facing important calls heading into the fixture. Emery must balance European fatigue with Premier League intensity, while Le Bris continues to carefully reintegrate returning players without risking setbacks.
Sunderland’s approach suggests caution with Ballard, while Villa’s recent schedule means late fitness checks could determine final line-ups.
What it means for the match
With key players missing and others only just returning, both teams are likely to rely heavily on squad depth. Villa’s attacking quality and home advantage remain significant, but Sunderland’s structured approach and improving momentum mean the game could hinge on which side manages their injury situation more effectively on the day.
