Aston Villa's next game against Spurs in the Premier League at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium doesn't take place until November 26, but several players are already questionable for the fixture.
The final international break of 2023 is here, and the group stage of EURO 2024 qualifying is to be wrapped up until the play-offs in March. The Africa Cup of Nations is also set to take place between January through to February, however games aren't being postponed, and there's also the FA Cup to think about so squads will be put through a massive test.
Several Villa players are involved in qualifying with a total of 13 players away on international duty with their respective countries. The Premier League is a global attraction and it brings in players from various continents, and with different time zones to consider, several clubs could be dealt a problem with the South American stars who usually return late with their respective countries like Argentina and Brazil.
A busy period awaits the players when they return from international duty. The festive period will see the first midweek game week of the season, as well as several matches being played from the week of Christmas Eve into the New Year. Injuries aren't always something that can be prevented but suspensions can, however several players have already accumalated five yellow cards before the amnesty cut-off which is the 19th-game of the campaign.
Flick through our gallery to see which players have been ruled out or are in danger of missing the north London clash next week.
1. Tyrone Mings - out
Suffered a serious knee injury against Newcastle United. His campaign is likely to be over given the recovery time for an ACL injury. Photo: Getty Images
2. Son Heung-min - doubtful
Son went down injured after scoring for South Korea against Sinapore. He was able to continue and said he was 'fine' but the Spurs medical staff will want a closer look at him. He said: "I am fine now, I don't like to lie down for a long time. "At that moment. I couldn't feel anything on my foot. "It's not only me, all players have small injuries but still play for the team."
3. Emi Buendia - out
Emi Buendia suffered a serious knee injury in training. He needed surgery, and that could put to bed any chance of him playing this season. Photo: Getty Images for Premier League
4. Guglielmo Vicario - doubtful
Goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario was sent back to north London after developing flu-like symptoms. He was on course to feature against North Macedonia and Ukraine, but was replaced and now his status for the next match has been brought into question.