Aston Villa are primed for an automatic promotion push, with Steve Bruce’s side perfectly positioned in fifth-place approaching the halfway stage of the season.

Despite numerous injury setbacks over the course of the campaign, the West Midlanders have remained resolute, and remain in contention despite the loss of influential figures including John Terry, Jonathan Kodjia and Jack Grealish.

Kodjia is out for the season following ankle surgery, with Terry still some way from a return, but Jack Grealish is ready to return to first-team affairs, having been ruled out for several months with a ruptured kidney.

The gruesome injury kept Grealish in hospital for ten days, and staff at Bodymoor Heath have treated the injury with great care as the winger returned to full-fitness.

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Bruce kept in close contact with the youngster during his recovery, and issued a message to his star man as he nears a return, with him expecting a big season from the player.

“He could be what we need at the top of the pitch to give us a hand,” Bruce told The Birmingham Mail.

“It’s good to see him back and people forget he’s only 22.

“He’s been around the block a bit but he’s still young and he’s training really well.

“It’s a big season for him.”

The Verdict

News of Grealish’s return will come as a huge boost to all of those associated with the club, with the 22-year-old displaying excellent form before his disappointing injury.

Back to full-fitness and ready to go, Grealish could prove to feel like a new signing, and a run of good form could be enough to help fire the Villains back to the Premier League.

Grealish is a top talent destined to play in the top-flight, and if he can fulfil his massive potential, is a possible future England international.

Villa fans, just how important could Grealish prove to be this season? Have your say below...