Aston Villa centre-back Diego Carlos is expected to return from injury in February, according to an update from reliable journalist Ashley Preece.

The Lowdown: Cruel start to Villa career

The Brazilian joined Villa in a big-money transfer last summer, in what felt like an influential signing at the heart of their defence.

Unfortunately, Carlos made just two appearances for his new club before suffering a serious achilles injury in August, and he hasn't featured for them since.

The hope is that the 29-year-old returns the same player he was when Steven Gerrard signed him, and a new update is certainly good news for Gerrard's replacement.

The Latest: Carlos' return close

Writing on Twitter on New Year's Day, Preece confirmed that Carlos could be back in the fold as soon as next month:

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The Verdict: Massive boost for Emery

This is an enormous boost for Unai Emery, who may have got some improved performances out of Ezri Konsa and Tyrone Mings since coming in, but needs Carlos back fit again.

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The former Sevilla man is arguably a clear upgrade on the Villa duo, even though they deserve credit for their recent form, and he can sure up the back-line in the remaining months of the season.

Carlos has been hailed as an 'amazing' player by La Liga expert Kevin Campbell in the past and he is someone who could help the Villans go up another gear moving forward, as the Unai revolution gathers further steam.