Ezri Konsa
ENG
VillaCB
Back Line Anchor
Oct 23, 1997 (28)
Right
6'0"
161 lb
EnglandSet to start in central defense
Konsa has been named in England's World Cup squad and is expected to form a strong central defensive partnership with Marc Guehi throughout the competition under coach Thomas Tuchel.
Analysis: Konsa ended an impressive season with Aston Villa, having been a consistent and commanding presence at the heart of their defense throughout a campaign that included a Europa League title, bringing the physical dominance, pace and aerial ability that complement Marc Guehi's more technical qualities perfectly. The defender had an extraordinary run of form at international level before this season, having ended on the winning side in 11 consecutive England appearances, the joint longest such run by a defender in Three Lions history. Konsa heads into the World Cup as a trusted and dependable defensive option for manager Tuchel and one of the most experienced figures in a relatively young England back line.
Three interceptions in clean sheet
Konsa had one shot (zero on goal) in Wednesday's 0-0 draw against Crystal Palace.
Analysis: Konsa helped Villa secure their first clean sheet in eight games, leading the team with three interceptions and recording one tackle for a third straight match. He also made four clearances, bringing his total to 20 over his last four games, and registered his first shot attempt after going seven games without one.
Season high in chances created
Konsa had two tackles (zero won) and seven clearances in Sunday's 1-0 victory over Wolverhampton.
Analysis: Konsa created a season-high two chances while leading the team with seven clearances to help Villa secure their fourth clean sheet in the league. The defender has been a key part of the defense, starting all league games and recording seven tackles and 46 clearances while his attacking involvement has been minimal with only one shot and three chances created.
Available vs. Leeds United
Konsa (calf) is back in training and will be available for Sunday's game against Leeds United, manager Unai Emery told media during Friday's pre-match press conference. "And other players, tomorrow we'll train, the last training session, normally, it could be everyone available."
Analysis: Konsa suffered a calf injury while on international duty with England, but he's recovered and back in training, so he'll be available Sunday. Konsa has started in each of his 10 Premier League appearances this season.
Will miss England match
Konsa has not travelled to Albania due to a calf issue, coach Thomas Tuchel announced.
Analysis: Konsa picked up an ailment in training and will likely undergo some exams once he's back with Aston Villa. He'll have a week to recover ahead of next Sunday's away game versus Leeds United. He has started in all but two matches so far. Pau Torres would likely fill in if need be.
Consistent starter at center-back
Konsa has started all but one match for Aston Villa between the Champions League and the UEFA Europa League.
Analysis: The England international seems to be Unai Emery's top choice at center-back ahead of Pau Torres and Tyrone Mings (ankle), with the latter duo often rotating next to Konsa. Konsa has 15 clearances, five blocked shots and two clean sheets in six Premier League appearances so far.
Suspension cleared
Konsa is no longer suspended and is an option moving forward for the club.
Analysis: Konsa has served his suspension after receiving a straight red card in the season opener against Newcastle. He is expected to return directly to the starting XI in central defense, as he is considered an undisputed starter for Aston Villa. His return will likely push Pau Torres back to the bench.
Select Player
Search and select a player to compare