Jordan Ayew suspended for Aston Villa clash

Ghana striker Jordan Ayew will miss Aston Villa’s Championship clash with Blackburn Rovers at Villa Park on Saturday after picking up his fifth booking.

Ayew was booked during last Sunday’s 1-1 Second City derby draw at Birmingham City.

The Ghana striker was substituted in the 81st minute and replaced by Gabby Agbonlahor at St Andrew’s yesterday.

It was Agbonlahor’s first appearance in claret and blue since a cameo at Swansea City in March.

Ayew, who was also cautioned against Luton in the EFL Cup and Rotherham, Bristol City and Nottingham Forest in the Championship, must serve a one-match ban this weekend.

His suspension coincides with Jack Grealish’s return to contention after a three-match ban for stamping on Wolves opponent Conor Coady.

Bruce will monitor the fitness of Albert Adomah, who was forced off injured at Blues, before deciding whether to include Agbonlahor and Grealish among his attacking options against Rovers.