Aston Villa’s hopes of catching Newcastle United in the race for a Champions League place have been dealt a major blow by the news key midfielder Youri Tielemans could miss the rest of the season.
The Belgian playmaker has been a key player for Unai Emery’s side this season, scoring the only goal of their 1-0 win over Fulham last weekend. That victory brought Villa to within three points of Newcastle United, as five sides battle it out for a top-five place in the Premier League.

However, reports from the Athletic suggest Tielemans may not play again this season after picking up a muscle injury. He is out of their game at AFC Bournemouth on Saturday, and the home tie with Tottenham on Friday, May 16. There is some hope he may be fit for the final-day showdown with Manchester United at Old Trafford, but remains a doubt. Viila are already expected to be without Manchester United loanee Marcus Rashford for the rest of the campaign.

Tielemans has played in every Premier League game for Villa this season, with Emery’s side in excellent form going into the final three fixtures. While Newcastle hold an advantage over Villa and Nottingham Forest, they are currently level on points with Chelsea, who they face at St James’ Park on Sunday lunchtime.

Manchester City are only a point ahead of Eddie Howe’s side in third, with Arsenal just four points off in second – and United have to go to the Emirates a week on Sunday. Newcastle have injury issues of their own, of course, with Joelinton and Lewis Hall expected to miss the rest of the season.
Fabian Schar and Kieran Trippier came off in the 1-1 draw at Brighton last weekend, although both are expected to be fit to face Chelsea this Sunday.