The centre-back has yet to feature in a matchday squad but should now get his opportunity.

Unai Emery has told Taylor Harwood-Bellis that “your time is now”, with the defender finally set to make his Aston Villa debut.

The 24-year-old has not been included in a matchday squad since completing a £30 million deadline-day move from Southampton.

However, a hamstring injury to Pau Torres has opened the door, with Harwood-Bellis now expected to make his Villa debut in Wednesday’s Carabao Cup tie against Coventry City.

The centre-back has had to remain patient during his opening weeks at the club and was not included in Villa’s Champions League squad.

He also failed to make the bench for Premier League fixtures against Hull City and Nottingham Forest.

Emery said: “We needed to take off someone from the bench and it is Taylor.

“But now with the injury to Pau, it is coming his time.”

Harwood-Bellis was one of 10 summer signings made by Villa, and a first meeting with Coventry in 25 years gives Emery the opportunity to hand several players valuable minutes.

Winger Ibrahim Mbaye could make his first start, while Matteo Ruggeri is expected to come into the side in place of the injured Ian Maatsen.

Midfielder Leon Goretzka remains sidelined with a knee injury and is expected to return next month following the international break.