Doctor: Aston Villa player ‘unlikely to be able’ to play 90 mins v Newcastle after recent injury
Aston Villa attacking midfielder Ross Barkley is not yet at 100 per cent ahead of the Newcastle clash, according to Dr Rajpal Brar.
The injury expert claims that even though he returned to first-team action against PSG, he is far from being back at full fitness.
The Champions League quarter-finalists take on the Magpies next in the Premier League on 18 April.
Barkley not ready to play full 90 minutes against Newcastle
The 31-year-old, while he did return against PSG, played just two minutes off the bench.
Prior to that, he had not featured for three months, with his last appearance coming against West Ham on 10 January.
Speaking about this situation, Dr Brar, a doctor in physical therapy and a sports scientist, told Villa News: “He did have a delayed return from his injury, but he has been training with the first team and even made the bench.
“As he’s not played since January, bar the two minutes against PSG, he’s likely to carry a re-injury risk and is unlikely to be able to play the full 90 minutes.
“It will take weeks to get him back to full fitness, even though he’s back from injury.“
Aston Villa can consider moving on Barkley in the summer
Villa may consider moving Barkley on in the summer, despite his contract running until 2026 with an optional extra year.
At 31, Barkley’s age and physical demands of Unai Emery’s high-intensity system raise concerns about his long-term fit, especially as Villa aim to compete in the Premier League and Champions League.
While Barkley has contributed with three goals and one assist in 16 league appearances this season, his inconsistent starting role and competition from younger midfielders could prompt a sale.
Cashing in on him now, when his market value remains decent, could fund a younger, more durable replacement, aligning with Villa’s ambitions to build a squad capable of sustained success.
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