Diego Carlos absence explained as Unai Emery issues ‘concerning’ double Aston Villa injury update

Unai Emery has confirmed that both Diego Carlos and Alex Moreno have picked up minor injuries ahead of Aston Villa’s vital final Premier League game of the season against Brighton & Hove Albion. It surprised a few as Carlos didn’t make the bench for the 1-1 draw at Liverpool, whereas Moreno went off injured in that game.

Lucas Digne is another worry as he hobbled off with a back issue at Anfield but no update was issued in the post-match press conference. The fresh concerns are bad news for the Villans and could create quite the dilemma at left-back – a key position as Emery often focuses his attacks down that flank.

“It’s difficult because normally he’ll be injured [for at least next week],” Emery said of Moreno. “Diego Carlos yesterday, as well, he had a small injury. We don’t know if we can get him available next week. Moreno as well, but I think he will be more difficult to get ready. It’s a small injury but I don’t think he’ll be available for Sunday,” Emery continued.

Although no confirmation was given on what the exact issues are for both players, the positive is Emery didn’t seem overly concerned about any long-term layoffs. Carlos is a complete unknown with no diagnosis given, though Moreno could be seen holding his hamstring as he was forced off against Liverpool.

Villa head into the final game of the season in a strong position after their point at Anfield, helped massively by a shock defeat for Tottenham Hotspur on the same day. Brentford came from 1-0 down to win 3-1 and hand the Villans a huge boost in the European fight. If Emery’s men win against Brighton, they are guaranteed a top-seven finish.