Unai Emery provides injury update on John McGinn and Amadou Onana ahead of Nottingham Forest second leg

Unai Emery press conference injury update on John McGinn and Amadou Onana ahead of Aston Villa vs Nottingham Forest Europa League semi-final

Aston Villa welcome Nottingham Forest to Villa Park on Thursday night for the second leg of their Europa League semi-final, looking to turn around a narrow first-leg deficit.

Chris Wood’s penalty in the opening encounter means Nottingham Forest arrive with a 1-0 advantage, leaving Villa with work to do in front of their home support.

Unai Emery addressed the media on Wednesday as he prepares his side for what is a crucial European night in Birmingham.

With Villa also balancing domestic commitments, squad management and fitness levels are once again in focus heading into the tie.

McGinn boost but Onana set to miss out

There was a positive update regarding captain John McGinn, who looks set to return after concerns over his fitness.

“He trained normally and if he is not changing something, he is going to be available for tomorrow,” Emery said.

However, the situation is less encouraging elsewhere in midfield. Amadou Onana, who was forced off during the first leg, has not recovered in time to feature.

The Belgian also missed the weekend defeat to Tottenham, and his absence continues to be felt.

When asked whether Onana’s lack of training involvement meant he would miss the game, Emery was clear in his response: “Obviously not.”

Villa are also without Ross Barkley and Alysson for the tie, with both players omitted from the club’s Europa League squad list earlier in the campaign.

Onana’s absence is a setback given his importance in recent months, particularly in European fixtures where his physical presence and ball-winning ability have been key. Emery will now have to consider alternative options in midfield as Villa attempt to overturn the deficit.

Despite that, the return of McGinn provides a timely lift. The Scotland international’s leadership and energy could prove vital as Aston Villa look to regain control of the tie and push for a place in the final.

With the tie finely balanced, Emery will be hoping his side can respond at Villa Park and keep their European hopes alive.