Aston Villa have been handed a huge injury boost ahead of their upcoming Premier League meeting with Newcastle United on Saturday afternoon.

What’s the latest?

According to the French publication Le Equipe, this weekend could see the return of Lucas Digne following the injury he suffered in mid-September.

Whilst there was initial doubt over whether he would be fit for the World Cup, this new update is a big boost for both club and country.

He now has a run of games under the new manager to prove why he should be selected for France, all the while helping to take the Midlands club return where it belongs.

It could change their season 

For Steven Gerrard, the absence of both Digne and Matty Cash spelled the beginning of the end.

The 42-year-old relied heavily on his attacking full-backs to provide the width in his narrow system, so in their absence, his style of play crumbled.

Whilst Emery will likely set up his side in a very different way, the return of such a talented and creative defender will surely help him in his task of turning around this miserable campaign.

Thus far, Villa sit just three points above the relegation zone, having won just twice in their last ten Premier League games.

With the Frenchman’s absence felt all the heavier during this run, his return will be a welcome boost to the likes of Danny Ings and Ollie Watkins, who have struggled for goals this campaign.

Before last weekend’s double salvo against Brentford, the former had just one goal in ten league games, whilst the latter still only has two in 12.

For his previous club, whilst operating as a classic modern full-back would, he was lauded for his ability to deliver crosses to perfection.

Across his 127 games for Everton, he provided 20 assists, with his final full season seeing him assist seven under Carlo Ancelotti.

This kind of contribution could be integral to Emery’s plans, with Digne boasting vast Premier League experience and quality far beyond that of Ashley Young.

In the wake of arguably one of the toughest games you can face at the moment, the 29-year-old returning to fitness ahead of a trip to an in-form Newcastle United is undoubtedly great news for Emery.