Aston Villa must call on Marco Bizot vs Arsenal as Unai Emery drops Emi Martinez injury update
Marco Bizot could be set to start for Aston Villa against Arsenal on Saturday.
The Dutchman started in between the sticks as Villa secured a 4-3 win against Brighton in a manic clash away at the Amex.
Bizot came in late, just as he did against Feyenoord earlier in the season, as Emi Martinez dropped out of the squad on the south coast.
The number one represented a miss for the Villans after Martinez put in a stunning shift against Wolves in his last Villa Park outing.
It appears that the Argentina international could miss out on a meeting against his former club, with Unai Emery potentially set to call upon Bizot in B6.
Unai Emery drops Emi Martinez injury update at Aston Villa
Martinez dropped a howler against Liverpool just weeks ago, but has shown his value for the claret and blue outfit in recent weeks.
The 33-year-old was excellent against the Old Gold and was arguably the main reason that Villa secured three points against their local rivals.
It was hugely frustrating that he dropped out of the side to face Brighton, especially doing so at such late notice once again.
Bizot came in, but there were obvious questions over whether the Argentine would be available to feature against Arsenal on Saturday.
Emery has now spoken out to reveal a fitness insight in his press conference on Friday ahead of the B6 clash against the Gunners.
He said: “We will train this afternoon. He didn’t train yesterday, but it is very important for him how the passing hours are to feel better.
“Until the last moment, I don’t know if he will be available or not tomorrow.“
Marco Bizot ready replacement to face Arsenal
Villa have made a massive step up in the move to replace Robin Olsen with Bizot over the summer.
The man signed from Brest has been superb when called upon this season, and that was no different despite a difficult start against Brighton.
He may have been at fault for the opener at the Amex, but the 34-year-old made a late save that ultimately secured three points on the night.
Bizot made four saves and prevented 0.19 expected goals, while also maintaining an 83 per cent pass accuracy against the Seagulls.
The Dutchman also served as sweeper twice and contributed nine recoveries, showcasing his qualities against top-form opposition.
As an alternative for Martinez against Arsenal, he could go on to have a telling impact if he is to start ahead of Martinez in B6.
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