Young full-back faces scans to determine absence length whilst Liverpool veteran emerges as potential summer target
Aston Villa‘s defensive injury concerns have deepened with reports that Andrés García has sustained another hamstring problem during training, potentially ruling him out for an extended period just as the club prepare for the resumption of their Europa League campaign next month.
García’s repeated fitness issues have left coach Unai Emery with limited options at right-back, where Matty Cash has effectively been the only traditional option available throughout the campaign.
According to The Athletic, the 23-year-old is set to undergo scans that will determine how long he’ll be unavailable.
The Spanish defender’s versatility makes him valuable when fit, but his inability to stay healthy has prevented him establishing himself since his £15 million move.
Robertson emerges as summer target
Whilst dealing with García‘s injury woes, Villa are reportedly monitoring Andy Robertson‘s contract situation at Liverpool. The Scotland international’s deal expires this summer, making him available on a free transfer if negotiations with the Reds don’t produce an extension.
Robertson has admitted uncertainty about his Liverpool future, acknowledging ongoing discussions whilst leaving the door open to a potential departure after nine years at Anfield.
“We’ll see what happens,” Robertson said in January. “We’ve had chats now which will remain private. [I’ve] spoke to [the club] and we’ll see what happens.”
Suggested Articles
When pressed on whether he’d like to remain at Liverpool, Robertson provided a measured response that suggested genuine uncertainty rather than pro forma commitment.
“Yes but it’s a difficult question to answer. I’ve got five months left and we need to see the option to stay or if there’s options to go and things like that,” he added.
“I’ll sit down with my family and decide. After a stressful summer, I’m just trying to enjoy being a part of it, and being a Liverpool player. I wanted to qualify for the World Cup and thankfully we’ve managed to do that. I need to see what myself and my family wants moving forward.”
Robertson’s status at Liverpool has changed significantly since the £40 million signing of Milos Kerkez from Bournemouth last summer.
Kerkez has started most league matches this season, relegating Robertson to a squad role after years as an undisputed first-choice under previous coach Jürgen Klopp.
“Nobody can deny what I have given to this club,” he noted. “I’ve given everything day in and day out and put in some performances which I think have been good and I hope others agree.
“I’ve won a lot of trophies and had a lot of good days here. So it’s not quite like what the club needs to show in the next four months.
“My relationship with the people higher up in the club has always been excellent since the day I came in. Signing me for £8m and then doing what I have done helps that – I remind people of that all the time!”