Injured Aston Villa stars nearing returns but Emery to remain without several against Brentford

Unai Emery says several of Aston Villa’s injured stars are closing in on returning to action.

Villa host Keith Andrews’ Brentford on Saturday looking to make it three wins in a row, with Emery confirming several of those injured are making progress, though he will still be without some key players.

“Onana is out for a long time, but is progressing very well,” Emery said.

“Maatsen is progressing very well, but still out.

“Cissé as well, he’s progressing very well. He’s going to start to train with us next week, so it’s been positive.”

Leon Goretzka remains out this weekend but is nearing a first appearance for the club.

“Not tomorrow,” Emery said on the German. “He is training with us on Monday and Thursday. I don’t know if he will be available on Wednesday. Hopefully, he can be ready in a few days to get this consistency of training and to be included in the squad.

“He is important, Goretzka. He has experience at the high level. He joined us to help us with his experience and with his quality. He is a player who can give us a lot of things. Firstly, it is about how he is being fit.

“He has done one step forward in the last 10 days, so hopefully he will join us consistently for the next few days and weeks. We have young players, but I think they can have leadership in the dressing room too.”

Brian Madjo has also been training with the group as he nears a return, though Brentford could also come too soon for the youngster.