Tyrone Mings, Matt Targett and Jonathan Kodjia available for Aston Villa

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Aston Villa manager Dean Smith says that three doubtful players are available for this weekend. Giving his weekly injury update (as reported on the club’s official website), Smith confirmed that Tyrone Mings, Matt Targett and Jonathan Kodjia are fit.

Targett limped off against Burnley last weekend and was replaced by Neil Taylor. The English left-back went for a scan on a hamstring injury and nothing has shown up. Smith will treat Targett with care but he is fit to play against Norwich City.

Meanwhile, Mings picked up a shin injury during the draw with Burnley. However, there is no serious damage and he has been in training. The left-footed central defender recently earned an England call-up and he has been a consistent performer.

Kodjia is finally back for selection, having been missing since the opening game of the season. The Ivory Coast striker is training with a mask on and he will push Wesley Moraes and Keinan Davis for the striker spot.

Smith’s injury update

Smith told AVFC.co.uk: “Tyrone Mings had a whack on the shin. But he’s fine. He’s trained since.

“Matt Targett hasn’t trained yet since the weekend. But nothing showed up on the scan in terms of a hamstring issue, which is really pleasing. However, he certainly felt something so we’ve got be very cautious with him. But he will start training on Wednesday ready for the Norwich game.

“Jonathan Kodjia is training fully now with the mask on so we have people coming back from injury, which is good to see.”

TBR’s view

The Mings news is the biggest of all three injuries here. His partnership with Bjorn Engels has been solid and helped keep things tight for the Villans. Without him, it could be a lot worse – especially with Teemu Pukki lying in wait this weekend.

Targett’s news is also a boost but Smith might pick Taylor again to make sure there is no further damage. Meanwhile, Kodjia’s return gives Smith the chance to drop Wesley – who has been poor – and rotate his options.