Ross Barkley in trouble at Aston Villa as injury update emerges amid training footage
Ross Barkley has had a difficult season so far at Aston Villa.
Barkley is facing a contract dilemma at Villa with his current deal approaching its expiry date at the end of the campaign.
The midfielder made his long-awaited return as Villa beat Burnley 2-1, as the Villa Park faithful welcomed him back to the field.
His recovery took another step forward as the Englishman was a late substitute as Villa secured victory away to Tottenham on Sunday.
Barkley could still face a hugely uncertain future under Unai Emery after an injury update was shared in fresh training pictures.
Ross Barkley could be replaced by ace returning from injury
It says it all that Barkley was left out of Villa’s Europa League squad for the league phase, having played a role in the Champions League last campaign.
The ex-Chelsea man netted the winner against RB Leipzig in one of the many iconic moments from Villa’s year in Europe’s elite competition.
This doesn’t look like it will count for much with his days now looking numbered in claret and blue.
Barkley could soon be dropped further down the pecking order in the Midlands as George Hemmings returns to full fitness with Villa.
The 18-year-old was a regular in pre-season and will have an eye on returning to the first-team picture after a frustrating injury blow.
He was spotted in training as the Villa academy side prepares to face Skenderbeu in the UEFA Youth League on 21 October.
Should Emery back the teenager, it could prove to be the end of the road for Barkley and his second stint with the Villans.
Where could Barkley go if he leaves Aston Villa?
Barkley has proven to be a bargain signing after coming in for a cheap deal after Luton Town were relegated from the Premier League.
As a utility player, the B6 club couldn’t have hoped for much better, as the former Everton man has had a positive impact when called upon.
He is now 31, so bringing in Hemmings and giving him a chance in the senior set-up could prove to be ideal succession planning.
The youngster was superb in pre-season and could translate that onto the Premier League or Europa League stage if given the opportunity.
If that is to happen, Barkley could be looking for a way out in the summer, with several clubs likely to be interested in his signature.
Those at the lower end of the Premier League, like Brentford, West Ham and Sunderland, could see the midfielder as a helpful asset.
Many sides abroad would also reflect similarly on the Englishman, with the suggestion of a Championship move feeling disrespectful to the level of quality he does possess.
Enjoyed this article? Stay connected with all the latest Aston Villa news, updates, and behind-the-scenes content by following us on our new Instagram account – @villanews247