According to the Birmingham Mail, Aston Villa are hopeful that Robert Snodgrass’ injury isn’t too serious, although the winger is likely to be assessed before Sunday’s Second City derby. 

Colin Calderwood, Steve Bruce’s assistant, confirmed that Snodgrass picked up a groin injury against Burton Albion at the weekend, but highlighted that it was the workload of the Scottish winger that was likely to have led to his injury, which Villa are confident isn’t too serious.

Snodgrass, who has been influential in Villa’s recent run of six consecutive victories in the Sky Bet Championship, is expected to be assessed before Sunday’s visit of Birmingham City, where Bruce’s side will be looking for a seventh victory in as many games against their fierce city rivals.

The 30-year-old has been a key part of Bruce’s starting XI this season, making 25 appearances, which have brought seven goals and a further eight Championship assists.

The form of the on-loan West Ham United man has led Villa to third in the Championship table, with Bruce’s side just a single point outside the automatic promotion places heading into early February.

Saturday’s 3-2 victory over Burton helped Villa maintain that push for automatic promotion – Snodgrass completed just over an hour of that contest.

The Verdict 

Snodgrass has been key to Villa’s recent form, and Bruce will have his fingers crossed that the winger is available for Sunday.

On paper, Villa should have enough to beat Birmingham on Sunday, but in a derby, anything can happen and Bruce will want Snodgrass available.

However, Villa have a vital run of fixtures on the horizon, and if they are to pip Derby County to the second automatic promotion place, they can’t afford to risk Snodgrass’ long-term fitness.

Aston Villa fans… Let us know your thoughts!