Swansea City defender Federico Fernandez back to face Aston Villa

Image source, Getty Images

Image caption, Federico Fernandez was an unused substitute for Argentina in the 2014 World Cup final

Swansea City centre-back Federico Fernandez could be back for the club's match at Aston Villa on Saturday.

Fernandez, 26, flew to Argentina to be with his family and missed the 1-0 defeat against Liverpool due to personal reasons.

The defender has returned, but Swans boss Garry Monk hinted he could face a battle to regain his place in the team.

"He didn't train last week and Jordi [Amat] did tremendously well against Liverpool," said Monk.

"Family reasons was the reason why he wasn't in the squad [against Liverpool] but he's back in training and added to the squad we've already got.

"He's back in the squad and we've been assessing how he feels."

The only injury concern for Swansea is centre-back Kyle Bartley, who underwent a knee operation in February which ruled him out for six weeks.

Other than Bartley, Swansea have a fully-fit squad for their trip to Villa Park.

Villa are 16th in the Premier League, three points above the relegation zone with nine matches to go.

They have won their last three league and cup matches under new manager Tim Sherwood, while ninth placed Swansea are looking to avoid a third consecutive defeat.