Journalist Pete O'Rourke has claimed that Diego Carlos returning from injury before the end of the season would be a 'huge boost' for Aston Villa.

The Lowdown: Out of protective boot

It was reported earlier this month that Carlos is now out of his protective boot, after rupturing his Achilles tendon on his home debut against Everton back in August, which has kept him out for the rest of the season so far (Transfermarkt).

He is continuing his rehabilitation work at Bodymoor Heath alongside strength and conditioning coach Oli Stevenson, and is targeting a return early in the New Year, after previous concerns that he could miss the rest of the season.

The Latest: O'Rourke reacts

Speaking to GiveMeSport, O'Rourke has claimed that it would be a 'huge boost' for Unai Emery and his squad to be able to recall Carlos this campaign, adding that he has been a 'big loss':

“I think he’s been a big loss in that defence where Villa have conceded a lot of goals, they’ve tightened up under Unai Emery, but I think if Emery could call upon Diego Carlos between now and the end of the season, it would be a huge boost for the whole squad.

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The Verdict: Massive

It cannot be underestimated how massive it would be for Villa to be able to play Carlos again from the start of the New Year, after initial fears.

The central defender ranked as Sevilla's seventh-best performer in La Liga last season, while none of his team-mates averaged more aerial duels, clearances or blocks per game than him, per WhoScored.

It is easy to see why Villa paid £26m for his services in the summer, and given that they have conceded 22 goals already in the Premier League, the ninth-most in the division, the Brazilian would be welcomed back at Villa Park with open arms.