Injury concern as Aston Villa star forced off during international fixture

Everyone associated with Aston Villa will be concerned to know Konsa was substituted prematurely during England’s Nations League clash against Greece.

The versatile defender’s ninth senior appearance for the Three Lions was ended early as interim manager Lee Carsley decided to replace him with Lewis Hall at half time. Konsa, who started the game at centre-back, had been limping at the end of the first period and subsequently moved across to right-back in order to be less exposed.

It’s not the first time the 27-year-old has been replaced under caution as he was taken off in the 61st minute of the 2-0 win over Finland in October. On that occasion, Konsa was fine and able to return to Villa’s camp without any long-term issues.

Unai Emery will be praying it’s the same case again as Konsa is a vital cog in his system. The nerves will be exemplified further by the fact Villa’s fixture run is set to become incredibly congested in the lead up to - and including - the festive period.

Matty Cash is set to return for after the international break - so at least Villa won’t need Konsa at right-back - but Emery will want the England international available regardless as he’s a guaranteed starter at centre-back most weeks.

It wasn’t all bad news for Villa during England’s clash in Greece as Ollie Watkins scored the opening goal and Morgan Rogers was subbed on for his senior debut just after the hour mark. If Konsa turns out to be fine, it’ll be reflected on as a great night for Villa’s Englishmen.