Aston Villa defender Neil Taylor has pulled out of Wales' upcoming international games through the injury that forced him off against Derby last time out.

The former Swansea left-back went off at half-time in Villa's emphatic 3-0 win over the Rams.

And, journalist Matt Maher revealed that the knock has forced Taylor to pull out of Nations League encounter against Denmark and the friendly against Albania a few days later.

It's still unclear how severe the setback is for the 29-year-old but he will be desperate to be fit for Villa's game after the break.

That's because Dean Smith's men are hosting Birmingham in what should be a fierce Second City derby, where the hosts will be looking for a third consecutive win.

Taylor has been an important part of the side since Smith took over, starting in the five games that the former Brentford boss has been in charge of.

Should the experienced defender miss out, he is likely to be replaced by Ahmed Elmohamady, with Alan Hutton reverting to left-back - which is how Villa set up in the second half against Derby.

The Verdict

This would be a blow for Villa as Taylor has played a part in Villa's recent upturn in form and he deserves credit for that.

Therefore, Smith will hope the player is available after the international break for the huge game against Blues.

However, Villa have several defensive options who can fill in so the new boss won't be taking any risks with Taylor.

Thoughts, Villa fans? Let us know in the comments below.

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