Unai Emery explains Garnacho’s Villa struggles after another game on bench

Unai Emery has explained Alejandro Garnacho’s continued absence from Aston Villa’s starting line-up, saying the winger is “a little bit behind” after his disrupted pre-season according to ESPN. Garnacho, who joined Villa on loan from Chelsea, was an unused substitute for the third consecutive match as Villa defeated Coventry City 3-1 in the Carabao Cup.

Despite Emery making seven changes to his side, the Argentina international was not introduced and has yet to start a competitive game in six appearances this season. Emery urged Garnacho to remain patient and work hard in training while acknowledging competition for places from George Hemmings, Alysson and Ibrahim Mbaye. Villa next face Tottenham in the Premier League.