Smith has near fully-fit squad ahead of play-off first leg against West Brom

Posted Friday, May 10, 2019 by PA

Aston Villa report no fresh injury concerns ahead of Saturday’s Championship semi-final play-off first leg against West Brom.

Midfielder John McGinn should return having been rested for the final match of the regular season against champions Norwich.

On-loan Chelsea forward Tammy Abraham, who had been carrying a shoulder problem, looks set to also be involved again along with midfielder Jack Grealish.

Other than goalkeeper Orjan Nyland, who is recovering from Achilles surgery, Villa boss Dean Smith is expected to have a full squad to choose from.

West Brom will be without forward Hal Robson-Kanu, who starts a three-match ban – which means he will miss all of the play-off fixtures, including possibly the final.

Robson-Kanu was shown a red card for lashing out at Derby midfielder Bradley Johnson in the closing stages of the last Championship match of the regular campaign.

Baggies captain Chris Brunt is expected to return to the side having been left out of the squad against the Rams.

Midfielder Jake Livermore remains doubtful with a bruised foot which has kept him out of the last four games, while Gareth Barry (knee) continues his rehabilitation.