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Aston Villa forward Libor Kozak has been ruled out for several weeks after it was revealed he has suffered an ankle fracture.

The Czech, who has missed most of the last two years leg-breaking injuries, had recently forced himself back into the starting XI under Remi Garde, starting matches against Crystal Palace, Leicester and Albion.

But he's set now for another spell on the sidelines, with Garde discovering the news only this morning.

With Rudy Gestede also not ready to return because of a hamstring injury picked up at The Hawthorns and Jordan Ayew suspended, Gabby Agbonlahor remains as the sole senior striker at the club ahead of the visit of Norwich.

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Asked whether he could include a forward from the U21 set-up, most notably Jerell Sellars, the manager hinted that it would be too early.

“To be fair, the situation where we are in is not the best place to start your professional career.

“I don’t want to put them into a difficult situation.”

Agbonlahor will be the man to lead the line and Garde was pleased with his contribution at Upton Park.

“To be fair, he did well.

“His attitude was very positive for the team.

“In his position, when you are playing with ten men it is the worst position because you run everywhere.

“He showed a good example of what I’m asking him to do as an experienced player.

“I was pleased with what he did.”