Aston Villa star Emi Martinez makes surgery revelation and outlines World Cup plan

Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez has revealed he turned down surgery on his broken finger in order to play for Argentina at the World Cup.

Martinez’s participation was plunged into doubt when he fractured the ring finger on his right-hand when warming up for Villa’s Europa League final win over Freiburg last month.

The 34-year-old has now opened up on the extent of the injury and explained how he is playing through the pain barrier after featuring in all three of Argentina’s group stage wins.

Martinez, who has been wearing a splint during those matches, admits he feared missing the World Cup completely when told he would require surgery.

Instead, he chose to ignore the doctors’ advice and “risk” battling on, as he looks to help Argentina retain the crown they won in 2022.

Speaking to reporters after Saturday’s 3-1 win over Jordan, Martinez explained: “I decided not to get surgery and honestly, I had a rough time and was really struggling.

“I came here really risking it and couldn’t train. I still haven’t trained with the group.”

Martinez, who conceded just one goal in three matches as Argentina finished top of Group J, hopes he will be able to play without the splint for the first time in Friday’s last-32 tie against Cape Verde.

But the finger itself remains swollen and the keeper explained how medical staff have spent time draining fluid in order to get him in shape to play.

He said: “I think by the next match I can play without the splint, which is super uncomfortable. The glove feels really loose.

“Honestly, it bothers me a ton, but on the field I try not to let it get to me.”

Martinez continued: When they told me I had to get surgery, a million questions raced through my head, but the coach always had my back.

“He told me to get to the match however I could and he’d back me up. That gave me a ton of encouragement.”

Martinez played the full 90 minutes against Freiburg as Villa ended their 30-year wait for major silverware.

The keeper’s future at the club has been the subject of speculation for the second straight summer. Juventus are potential suitors but have not yet approached Villa with a bid.