Aston Villa assessing star's fitness ahead of key Tottenham clash

Villa are assessing the fitness of Joao Gomes in the hope the midfielder could return for Saturday’s Premier League clash with Tottenham.

Unai Emery declared the Brazilian’s involvement “uncertain” after he missed Wednesday’s Carabao Cup win at Coventry due to muscle pain.

Gomes has just completed a three-match Premier League ban after being sent-off just 40 minutes into his Villa debut at Brighton last month.

The 25-year-old’s only appearance for the club since came in a 3-2 Champions League win over Club Brugge earlier this month.

“Joao is needing some days to come back,” explained Emery. “We are going to test him tomorrow (Thursday) and Friday.

“In case it goes well, he could be available for Saturday. It is uncertain for now.”

Matty Cash is also a doubt for Tottenham after being an unused substitute at Coventry.

The right-back had hoped to make his return having missed the previous two matches through injury but was not risked by Emery after complaining of discomfort.

Villa head to Tottenham for their final match before a three-week international break, targeting their first league win of the season. The home side are still searching for their first goal.