Aston Villa star set for scan after early Everton exit

Aston Villa star set for scan after early Everton exit captures a growing concern for Unai Emery’s side as Youri Tielemans became the latest midfielder to join a mounting injury list. Villa were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw at Goodison Park on Saturday, a result that extended their goal drought to four consecutive games — the first time in the club’s history they have started a season without scoring.

Tielemans’ withdrawal at half-time due to a calf problem could not have come at a worse time. the Belgian international is due to undergo a scan to assess the extent of the damage. Having been crowned both players’ and supporters’ player of the year last season, his absence would represent a significant blow for a team already struggling for rhythm and results.

The injury forced Emery into emergency measures. With Boubacar Kamara and Amadou Onana sidelined by hamstring problems and Ross Barkley absent due to personal reasons, Villa’s midfield options were stretched to breaking point. So severe was the shortage that new signing Victor Lindelof — usually a central defender — made his Villa debut in midfield during the closing stages at Everton.

The goalless stalemate highlighted Villa’s lack of cutting edge in attack, with John McGinn and Lamare Bogarde the only recognised central midfielders Emery could rely upon. It leaves the Spaniard searching for answers in both midfield depth and attacking fluidity. Can Villa’s season recover quickly, or will this injury crisis derail their hopes before they’ve even begun?

Last season, Tielemans was a standout figure, dictating play from midfield and emerging as a leader on and off the pitch. His recognition as both the players’ and supporters’ player of the year highlighted his impact. Losing him now, even temporarily, leaves Villa without a key organiser who links defence and attack.

Emery’s midfield balance is particularly fragile given the injuries to Kamara and Onana, both of whom provide defensive solidity. Without them, Villa lack control in the middle of the park, while Barkley’s absence further reduces creativity.

The midfield crisis could force Emery into tactical reshuffles, potentially relying on Lindelof in an emergency holding role or promoting younger players like Bogarde more quickly than planned. While Tielemans’ scan results are awaited, the lack of options underscores how vulnerable Villa’s squad remains despite a strong recruitment drive in other areas.

For Villa to recover, they must adapt tactically — focusing on wide play and quick transitions to compensate for the midfield deficit. But long-term, Emery will need reinforcements or swift returns from Kamara and Onana if the team is to compete for European places again.

Villa face a quick turnaround with a Carabao Cup tie on Tuesday. Emery hopes the match will help restore confidence and sharpen attacking movements. If Tielemans’ injury is confirmed as serious, however, pressure will grow on Villa to find short-term solutions in midfield.

With tough Premier League fixtures looming, Emery’s ability to navigate this crisis could define Villa’s season. A fully fit Tielemans will be crucial — but until then, the squad must dig deep to avoid slipping further behind.

👉 Should Villa dip into the January market for midfield reinforcements, or trust their young players to step up?