Unai Emery details Philippe Coutinho injury after ‘agonising’ pull-up vs Everton

Unai Emery believes the injury suffered by Philippe Coutinho in the 4-0 Premier League win over Everton isn’t as severe as first thought.

The Brazilian, who had only been on for around 20 minutes as a substitute, was forced off the field when he pulled up darting away from an Amadou Onana challenge.

Coutinho, looking in agony as he limped around the perimeter of the pitch with the help of Villa’s staff, appeared to be holding his hamstring but it wasn’t overly clear.

Speculation rose that it could’ve perhaps been something more sinister as a reminder arose of the serious knee injuries Emiliano Buendia and Tyrone Mings recently sustained.

Thankfully, though, it doesn’t seem serious from first impressions as Emery provided an update in the post-match press conference.

“We think [it’s] not a big injury. I think it’s his hamstring but we have to wait until tomorrow for analysis,” Emery admitted.

“Hopefully, in two or three weeks he’ll be available again,” the head coach said, relieved.

Having seen his promising impact in pre-season for the Villans and knowing how hard he had worked to get back to fitness, it was devastating to see Coutinho in such a way.

Villa fans will be hoping Emery’s first impressions of the injury are correct. If so, a return after the international break is on the cards.