Aston Villa star Tyrone Mings sends message as retirement confirmed
Tyrone Mings has suffered during a frustrating battle with long-term injuries during his time at Aston Villa.
The centre-back missed almost the entirety of the 2023/24 Premier League campaign, making just one start in the league, and has just five starts to his name this term as well.
Despite returning to action in October, his appearances were few and far between before putting a run of seven games together before eventually hobbling off against West Ham last month.
Mings was quick to reassure disappointed supporters that the new setback was not serious, and he was clearly right, with the defender now in contention to feature against Ipswich Town on Saturday 14 February.
That could be just his sixth start of this Premier League season, but with Pau Torres and Ezri Konsa sidelined, it could not have come at a better time.
As someone who has experienced long spells on the sidelines, and more important, away from the pitch, he was quick to wish another player well following their retirement from football.
James Chester announces retirement from football
Taking to Instagram on Thursday [13 February], James Chester announced his decision to end his 18-year career as a professional footballer, with former teammates and managers flooding to send him messages.
The 36-year-old Welshman, who won 35 caps for his national team, played 126 times for Villa as well as Hull City, West Brom, Stoke City and Derby County.
Having played together at Villa Park, Mings simply replied: “What a legend you are mate! Congrats on a brilliant career,” with a blue heart emoji.
Unai Emery handed Aston Villa boost
Mings’ timely return to full fitness comes at an important time for Unai Emery and the Villans, with upcoming clashes against Liverpool, Chelsea and Cardiff City in the FA Cup.
The number of injuries has been piling up at Villa Park, with Matty Cash and Amadou Onana also among those not available for their next Premier League clash.
With the knockout stages of the Champions League also to think about, Emery needs as many of his stars fit and raring to go and Mings could be key if other defenders are sidelined for a long time.