Aston Villa learn fate of Zion Suzuki injury as Japan release withdrawal statement

Aston Villa continue to wait on the fitness of Zion Suzuki while away with Japan.

Reports emerged from Asia at the beginning of the international break that the keeper was struggling with an injury.

It is unclear what that exactly is as initial news of a rib injury may be wide of the mark.

Regardless, the 24-year-old's status has been summed up by his failure to feature in either of Japan's recent two fixtures.

He was absent from the squad entirely against Uruguay as Tomoki Hayakawa came into the starting XI.

Suzuki did return against Venezuela, but with Japan releasing a statement, what does that mean for the shot-stopper?

Japan release statement after squad withdrawal

The Villa Park faithful certainly won't want to see anything happen to the summer signing after his start in the Premier League.

His stunning performance against Tottenham is just proof of why.

Making five saves and completing 21 passes is certainly no mean feat.

That is why news of an injury hit so hard in the Midlands, despite the lack of official news from the Japan camp.

Suzuki did get 45 minutes under his belt on Monday against Venezuela, but questions still remain in B6.

Those have been put to bed somewhat after Japan confirmed multiple withdrawals from their squad at this stage of the international break.

Koki Kumasaka, Tomoya Ando and Sato Ryunosuke have all departed with injury and club circumstances given as the reasons.

With the Villa keeper sticking around for upcoming clashes with Ecuador and Panama or New Zealand.

That will actually serve as a frustrating update, in some respects, as worry has surrounded the Midlands and the fitness of the keeper.

It feels as if his injury and fitness status could have been clarified much sooner to reduce concern from Villa Park.

How did Aston Villa star Suzuki fare vs Venezuela?

The claret and blue faithful certainly will have been delighted to see the keeper get some game time on Monday.

It came as a surprise to many after limited news about his fitness.

Suzuki came off the bench at half-time and still managed to clock up two saves on the day.

He also completed 13 passes and four long balls as well as showing his quality with one high claim.

That will all be music to the ears of Unai Emery and Co. as it seems as if the number one is fit and match-ready at this stage.