Key Aston Villa defender set to miss FA Cup final against Arsenal at Wembley

Aston Villa managed to ensure Premier League survival this year despite a rash of injuries that continually plagued the team. With the season down to its final match, though, it doesn't seem as if the football gods are ready to take their thumb off of Tim Sherwood's side. Central defender Jores Okore is looking very likely to miss Saturday's FA Cup final against Arsenal at Wembley thanks to fatigue on his surgically repaired right knee.

Okore missed almost all of the 2013-14 season after he ruptured his ACL, but his return this year has bolstered Aston Villa's defense significantly. Aside from Ciaran Clark, he has probably been the club's best defender. But playing nearly a full schedule has apparently put strain on the knee that he had previously injured. According to Sherwood, the club aren't sure what the next step is for Okore. "I'm hoping he doesn't need surgery but I am not sure. It is related to the ACL but the ligaments are still intact."

There is still a slight hope that Okore plays, but it's probably in the best interests of the club to continue to rest him and evaluate as the summer begins. He has already been withdrawn from the Danish side in the U21 European Championship set to be held in the offseason.

The loss of Okore likely means a repeat of Sunday's pairing of Nathan Baker and Ron Vlaar at centre back.

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