Aaron back

and will not only miss out against Swansea, but next week’s crunch clash against Crystal Palace as well.

Two of Wagner’s popular German players are suffering contrasting fortunes on the fitness front.

Fans’ favourite Michael Hefele will be sidelined for six to eight weeks after having a cartilage operation, but Elias Kachunga has returned to full training after not playing a match since the 4-1 win at Watford on December 16.

Kachunga will need more time, but Wagner confirmed it’s more training sharpness than general fitness that’s required for the 25-year-old.

“Aaron has been back in full training for the whole week without any issues,” said Wagner of his key Australian midfield playmaker.

“I thought he was strong in his last match against Bournemouth, like the whole group, before he got the injury.

“He was not able to train for two weeks, but then he was back training individually for a week and now a full week in training.

“To be honest, he has played so many minutes and so many games that it’s been beneficial for him for his body to take a break.

“He looks very sharp and very good in training and he is a very, very important player for us.”

So can he play a full game right now?

“I think Aaron is maybe not able to play 90 minutes at the highest level,” answered the boss.

“For sure he could cope with less than 90 minutes but this is not something I am focused on, it’s just great to have competition in our squad for this position and others as well.”

The absence of AS Monaco loanee Kongolo means Wagner will have to make at least one change in defence against Carlos