Alan Hutton: Leon Bailey is now set for huge Aston Villa campaign after shining in pre-season
We’re delighted to welcome former Scotland defender Alan Hutton as our exclusive columnist each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at Aston Villa
Alan Hutton has insisted that it is a “huge” season for Aston Villa winger Leon Bailey with the Premier League now only one week away.
The ex-Villa defender has been left blown away by the Jamaican international in pre-season, especially after his brilliant goal and assist against Manchester United.
Hutton warned that Bailey needs to stay fit though, with his explosive bursts of pace leaving him suspect to the frequent problems he has suffered from previously in his career.
“I think it’s a huge season for him,” he exclusively told Villa News.
“When he first came in there was a lot of hype, and rightly so – he’s a really talented player with that X factor, he has the pace. He showed it against Manchester United and all the fans are desperate to see it every week so that’s on him now to go and prove it.
“So, I think it’s a big season for him and I think he will be a main starter, but he has to stay fit. That was one of his problems last season, he was hampered by many injuries, when you’re explosive, that happens but you have to look after your body.
“Hopefully, he can build on this pre-season as we’ve seen he can rip it up.”
Perfect.
This could very much be like a brand new signing for the Villa in the 2022-23 season.
After Bailey’s goal against Everton in the last campaign, everyone in the stands were desperate to see more, but it never really ended up like that after his numerous problems.
Now back to full fitness at the perfect time, Bailey could really hit the ground running in the early favourable games, starting with that opening day trip to Bournemouth.
With doubts surrounding playing two strikers at once, Bailey could come into his own out wide with Philippe Coutinho on the inside of him providing everything.
This is one to really watch in the new season.
In other Aston Villa news, Tyrone Mings has now reacted to losing the captaincy to John McGinn