Aston Villa are set to be without a number of first-team players for their match against Wigan Athletic this weekend, as they look to close the gap on the top six. 

According to Sky Sports, Jack Grealish, Axel Tuanzebe and Orjan Nyland are all still sidelined for Dean Smith's side for this one, which will be hugely frustrating.

Grealish has been ruled out with a shin injury that has seen him miss the last seven games for Villa, whilst Tuanzebe is sidelined until March with a foot injury.

Orjan Nyland ruptured his Achilles earlier this season, and has been ruled out for the rest of this year's campaign, with new signing, Lovre Kalinic, likely to start against Wigan.

Henri Lansbury also picked up a hamstring injury in the defeat to Swansea at the weekend and is doubtful for this one.

But there is positive news with new signing Kortney Hause likely to start in place of the injured Axel Tuanzebe after joining Villa on loan for the rest of the season. 

Tammy Abraham is also in line to start after being rested in the FA Cup defeat to Swansea at the weekend, which would be his first start since he turned down a move to Wolves. 

The Verdict

Dean Smith needs his key players to return as quickly as possible.

Jack Grealish in particular will be a player that Villa will need for the remainder of the season, as he can provide the creative spark that Smith's side have been missing in recent weeks.

Lansbury's absence will be frustrating as he has only just returned to action, but Villa should have enough quality in their side to beat Wigan this weekend.

Thoughts? Let us know!