Aston Villa receive double fitness boost ahead of Norwich clash
Villa have been handed a double fitness boost with Jonathan Kodjia and Matt Targett expected to be in contention for Saturday’s trip to Norwich.
Striker Kodjia has been training in a mask since suffering a fractured cheekbone last month and has now been given the all-clear for a return to action.
The Ivory Coast international has not featured since suffering an ankle injury in August’s 3-1 defeat to Tottenham but will now provide some welcome competition up front for boss Dean Smith.
Targett could also face the Canaries after a scan revealed no injury to the hamstring which forced him off early in last weekend’s 2-2 draw with Burnley.
The 24-year-old, who was making his top flight debut for Villa, was due to return to training today.
Though boss Dean Smith will exercise caution, the club’s medical staff are confident Targett has no long-term problem.
“Nothing showed up on the scan in terms of a hamstring issue, which is really pleasing,” said Smith.
“However, he certainly felt something so we’ve got to be very cautious with him.
“Jonathan Kodjia is training fully now with the mask on so we have people coming back from injury, which is good to see.”
Villa have, meanwhile, confirmed this month’s Carabao Cup fourth round clash with Wolves is free for season ticket holders.
Free entry to the first home cup game of the campaign has been part of the club’s season ticket package for the past four years.
