Aston Villa have been rocked by the news that star player Jack Grealish has suffered a setback in his bid to recover completely from the shin injury that has plagued the England man for several weeks.
Grealish won’t be in the Villa squad for the trip to Merseyside. The England international was expected to be fit after the international break only for him to pick up an injury. The Villa Academy graduatehad returned to training in time for the Fulham game last weekend only for him to suffer a setback on the eve of the match.
Villa manager Smith ruled Grealish out of action for the next two weeks during his press conference. To this effect, Grealishwon’t feature against the Reds at the weekend as pointed out earlier. The England international is alsodoubtful for the home match with leaders Manchester City a week on Wednesday in the league. The midlands derby at home to West Brom in two weeks’ time in the league could be a realistic target for Grealish to return to action.
Villa manager Smith has had to navigate the last seven Premier League games without Grealish and his influence has been sorely missed. Villa have struggled without Grealish, winning just two of those seven matches without the England man. The second win came against London club Fulhamlast week. Villa trailed 1-0 into the final quarter of the game before three late goals ensured that they defeated the Cottagers 3-1 at home. The win was a big boost in the club’s quest to secure a place in Europe next season.
Grealishhas six goals and ten assists for Villa. Smith would be hoping for his skipper to return in time for him to lead the assault for a place in Europe next season.