Unai Emery has revealed that Emi Martinez was forced to miss Aston Villa’s 4-3 win over Brighton due to a back injury.
Martinez was initially named in Villa’s starting line-up at the Amex Stadium but was replaced by Marco Bizot after he was forced to withdraw during the warm-up.
A double from Ollie Watkins, plus goals from Amadou Onana and Donyell Malen sealed Villa’s win.
Bizot, meanwhile, was at fault for Brighton’s opening goal as he flapped at Ferdi Kadioglu’s corner but the 34-year-old produced an excellent save late on to deny Danny Welbeck’s header from close range.
Villa now face a quick turnaround as they host Arsenal in their next Premier League fixture at 12:30pm on Saturday, which means Martinez could be a doubt for the game against his former club.
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When asked about Martinez’s injury after Villa’s victory, Emery said: ‘He was feeling pain in his back, he couldn’t even do a warm-up normally.
‘We have Marco, and Marco is a fantastic guy and professional. He accepts his role. He signed here to be the sub of Emi Martinez.
‘He is ready when he is available and awaits his moment. Here, for the goalkeeper, it is very difficult to defend corners.
‘How he saved the last action was fantastic. He is so mature and responsible.’
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