Alan Hutton: Philippe Coutinho future at Aston Villa could be in doubt
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 has suggested Philippe Coutinho’s career at Aston Villa could be in doubt if Unai Emery looks to move players on in January.
The Brazilian has struggled for form in the 2022/23 campaign with zero goals or assists to his name thus far after making his move from Barcelona permanent.
However, Hutton feels Emery could look to move a big name such as Coutinho out of the club as he looks to stamp his authority on things at Villa Park.
“The big one at this moment in time in Coutinho, and whether he try and get rid of someone like that because it’s not quite worked,” Hutton exclusively told Villa News.
“Going on what I would do if I was a manager is I would want to keep everybody and take a look at everyone and give them a fair shot and an opportunity and then make a decision from there.
“There’s one or two which might go but then it comes down to the summer window for Emery to really put his stamp on it and decide who he wants to leave the club.
“By then he will have enough time to assess who is really good enough and who isn’t.”
The World Cup break is the ideal time for the 51-year-old to really get to know his squad and assess who could potentially be on their way out of the club.
Villa’s owners were supportive of Steven Gerrard in the summer and they will have to replicate a similar level of backing for Emery in the January window.
In other Aston Villa news, Bracey believes Robin Olsen hasn’t been good enough and the club needs a replacement back-up keeper.