Aston Villa injury news: Jadon Sancho 'timeline' suggested after shoulder issue in friendly

Aston Villa winger Jadon Sancho will reportedly be in a position to return from a shoulder injury before the end of April.

With no competitive game scheduled until the first leg of the Europa League quarter-final against Bologna on April 9, Unai Emery took the decision to arrange a friendly against Elche last Friday.

However, despite the players who were not on international duty getting minutes under their belt, Villa suffered a blow with regards to Sancho.

The Manchester United loanee was forced off with a shoulder issue after landing awkwardly in a challenge shortly before half time.

Sancho was immediately withdrawn and appeared in some discomfort as he made his way off the pitch in Spain.

© Imago / Sportimage

How long will Sancho be sidelined?

According to The Athletic, Sancho's timeline for recovery is better than initially feared.

Nevertheless, the 26-year-old is still in line to spend approximately three weeks on the sidelines.

Sancho could now miss at least four matches for Villa as they attempt to remain in the top five of the Premier League table and win the Europa League.

As well as the continental double-header with Bologna, Villa also have important Premier League fixtures against Nottingham Forest and Sunderland before April 19.

If Sancho has not already returned, Villa will hope that he is available for the trip to Fulham on April 25.