Poland manager raises ‘problem’ over Jan Bednarek’s game-time at Aston Villa
Jan Bednarek’s lack of playing time at Aston Villa is cause for concern for Poland manager Czeslaw Michniewicz ahead of their Nations League fixtures.
Bednarek has failed to make a single appearance for Villa since signing a season-long loan deal from Southampton in the summer.
The 26-year-old centre-back was brought in to bolster Villa’s defensive depth, but he’s failed to impress Steven Gerrard during his short time at the club.
Bednarek was still called up for Poland this month ahead of the upcoming Nations League fixtures this week, but Michniewicz revealed that his lack of game time could become a “problem”.
“There’s also a problem with Jan Bednarek, who has not played a match for over a month,” Michniewicz told Przeglad Sportowy, as translated by Birmingham Mail.
“Jan, however, always did well in the national team, even when he did not play for the club. I will talk to him about what he has at his disposal.”
Back-up
Bednarek wasn’t brought in to improve Aston Villa’s first team, and Gerrard can’t afford to start him in the club;s current situation.
Ezri Konsa and Tyrone Mings have cemented their spots in the starting XI, and there’s no time for experiments in defence. With so many players falling injured at the start of this season, it’s paramount that there’s some consistency in the side – the centre-back partnership provides just that.
While it’s unfortunate that Bednarek’s place in the national team may fall under threat – Gerrard can’t concern himself with that right now.
His priority will solely be on winning games with Villa, and he needs his strongest team to do that.
Bednarek will likely start a handful of games this season, especially in the run up to the World Cup. Cup fixtures and a hectic league schedule will demand rotation and allow him game time, but until then he’ll have to wait his turn.
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