Alan Hutton: Consistent run of games benefitting Aston Villa winger Leon Bailey
We’re delighted to welcome former Aston Villa full-back Alan Hutton as our exclusive columnist. Each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at Villa Park…
Alan Hutton believes a consistent run of games has really helped Aston Villa winger Leon Bailey as the Jamaican looks to kickstart his career in the Premier League.
The Daily Mail reported (30 August), that Ajax were considering making a late summer move for the 25-year-old, however, it didn’t materialise.
Bailey saw his 2021/22 season affected by injuries and Hutton has suggested a full preseason would’ve really helped the winger.
“Last season he was hampered by injuries and when you’re that fast and explosive player you need to be 100 per cent,” Hutton exclusively told Villa News.
“Having a good pre-season and a rest over the summer will have helped him and he now looks really sharp and a difficult customer to deal with and try and control.
“When he cuts in on his left foot he looks really dangerous and getting a run of game has really helped him and it’s a really important thing for a footballer.
“It’s good that he hasn’t had one game and then come out of the side, it’s about playing consecutive games and getting a run in the side and he looks really good at the moment.”
Bailey has made six appearances for Villa in the 2022/23 season and scored the equaliser against Manchester City in what was a crucial point for Steven Gerrard.
The 25-year-old will be looking to continue his good early season form as Villa look to build on their point against City when they host Southampton on Friday evening (16 September).
In other Aston Villa news, Douglas Luiz wants to leave for a Premier League club on a free.