Aston Villa duo doubts for Newcastle clash

Ross Barkley and George Hemmings will both be assessed ahead of Aston Villa’s Premier League trip to Newcastle United.

Barkley scored twice in Villa’s 6-0 Champions League win over Fenerbahce in midweek before being forced off late on after feeling discomfort.

“Ross, we’ll see this afternoon how he’s coming along after the match on Wednesday,” Unai Emery said.

“He played 85 minutes and was with some pain. We’ll check him this afternoon.”

Hemmings missed the European win altogether but is closing in on a return and could rejoin the group before Saturday’s game at St James’ Park.

“George Hemmings is close to joining us, maybe joining us this afternoon,” Emery said.

“We’ll see to decide for tomorrow.”

Ian Maatsen and Matteo Ruggeri remain sidelined through injury, while Amadou Onana continues his longer-term recovery.