Aston Villa are confident that Gabriel Agbonlahor will be fit for the start of the new Premier League season, despite suffering an ankle injury.
The striker suffered the problem during Villa’s pre-season friendly win over Chicago Fire, in which Agbonlahor scored the only goal, and live soccer betting markets have reacted accordingly in respect to their chances this season.
Villa scored the only goal of the game on 29 minutes, when Agbonlahor headed in Chris Herd’s cross but there were more injury concerns for Paul Lambert after the match.
The goalscorer limped off in the second half after picking up a knock to his ankle, although Villa remain optimistic over any absence.
Agbonlahor’s problem is “not as bad as first feared” and club officials have suggested that the striker will be sidelined for two weeks.
Even so, it’s hardly ideal for Villa considering they are still without main attacking threat, Darren Bent, due to a thigh strain.
Scoring goals was clearly Villa’s big problem last term, finishing last season with the second worst goals for record in the league, soccer betting tips writers are certainly keeping an eye on their search for a striker.
Villa scored 37 goals in the league, one better than Stoke City, as they stayed in the top flight by just two points.
With Agbonlahor and Bent both currently sidelined, Lambert may have to start with young duo Andreas Weimann and Nathan Delfouneso for the next couple of friendly games.
Villa return to action on their North American tour this Tuesday, when they look to secure a third win on the bounce against Portland.
