Alan Hutton backs Ludwig Augustinsson to push for an Aston Villa starting berth
We’re delighted to welcome former Scotland defender Alan Hutton as our exclusive columnist as each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at Aston Villa...
Alan Hutton has backed new Aston Villa signing Ludwig Augustinsson to push Lucas Digne for a starting spot at Villa Park.
Hutton believes Villa were right to bring in a new left-back, but that he believes Augustinsson will not want to sit on the bench all season.
The Swedish international arrives at Villa Park after just a single season at Sevilla but was impressive at Werder Bremen prior to his move to Spain.
“They needed a left-back, it’s kind of there for all to see,” he exclusively told Villa News.
“He obviously wants to play football, you’re not coming in to sit on the bench, he’ll push the whole way. It’s obviously gonna be difficult for him to break into the first 11, but he’s an experienced player.
“He’s got a lot of caps for Sweden as well so it’s something I think Gerrard will be happy with to have someone like that in the building who can push Digne all the way.”
Exciting battle
Despite his somewhat underwhelming season in Seville, Augustinsson is still an immensely talented defender.
Unlike with most new signings, there will not be much of a settling in period with him as he has pre-existing relationships with some of Villa’s stars.
He knew Diego Carlos from their time at Sevilla together while he also knows Robin Olsen from the Swedish national team.
As Villa spent £25million on Digne back in January Augustinsson will not start right away, but he should push the French star all the way.
In other Aston Villa news, Vijalmi Sinsalo and Finn Azaz have both joined League One clubs on loan.