Emery unsure over Martinez fitness for Arsenal

Unai Emery does not know if goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez will be available for Aston Villa’s mega-hit Premier League match with Arsenal on saturday.

Martinez missed Villa 4-3 win over Brighton & Hove Albion on Wednesday after he failed to complete the warm-up due to a back injury.

Marco Piso replaced the World Cup winner with Argentina as Villa came from behind to win a thrilling encounter on the south coast, and the Dutchman may need to do it again.

In response to a question about Martinez’s fitness, Emery said in a press conference: “We trained this afternoon and he did not train yesterday.

“It is very important for him that these hours pass if he feels better. Until the last minute I do not know whether he will be available or not for tomorrow.”

The lunch match will see Emery take on his former club, giving third-placed Villa the opportunity to do so The gap with the Premier League leaders was reduced to three points.

Emery added: “We are very happy with the way we are progressing, how we are competing, and how we are getting the points. We now have a really big opportunity for tomorrow.”

“Arsenal are the best team so far and of course they are the favorites to win this trophy in the Premier League because they are competing great and playing great.

“Tomorrow is really a big test – collectively and individually. For me as a coach as well. I am happy to have this opportunity to play tomorrow against Arsenal, at the level they have and at the level we have achieved over the past month.

“Playing at Villa Park is something that increases our motivation, adds to the moment of enthusiasm that we have. Hopefully tomorrow we can watch a really great game and play every minute with a lot of emotion and play well.”