Aston Villa have confirmed that Mile Jedinak is ‘available’ and ‘fit for selection’ for Saturday’s meeting with Ipswich Town. The 34-year-old had been sidelined with injury since December 1 and could make his long-awaited return against the Tractor Boys. He recently played in a behind-closed-doors friendly to improve his fitness.
Jedinak’s last appearance for Villa was all the way back in September – playing 90 minutes at centre-back in a 1-1 draw with Bristol City. The Australian international been an unused substitute since and has been left out of the matchday squad at times.
His future at Villa Park is uncertain amid interest from clubs in the Australian A-League, coupled with his contract expiring at the end of the season, but supporters will be delighted to see Jedinak back regardless. He’s unlikely to be little more than backup for Villa but will be a useful squad player to call upon.
In midfield, Jedinak finds Birkir Bjarnason, Glenn Whelan, Conor Hourihane and John McGinn standing in his way. In defence, the Australian has James Chester, Kortney Hause, Tommy Elphick and Axel Tuanzebe for competition. Jedinak has made nine Championship appearances this season, but his role under Dean Smith is unknown as he’d been absent ever since the Villa boss replaced Steve Bruce.
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