Ashley Young to win new Aston Villa contract as BBC pundit shares ‘crazy’ verdict
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 backed Unai Emery to hand Ashley Young a new contract with the Aston Villa veteran’s current deal due to expire in the summer.
Young, 37, rejoined the Villans in 2021 and despite his advancing years, he’s impressed this season and managed to play 22 times across all competitions.
The former Manchester United star has played at both left-back and right-back for the Villans but has seen his role decrease in recent weeks.
Emery’s not started Young in the Premier League since the defeat at Manchester City on 12 February and he’s since come off the bench just once in five games.
Despite his role in the side being slowly reduced, Hutton maintains that it would be a good move to keep Young at the club due to his versatility and his experience.
“I think Emery will [want to keep Young],” Hutton told Villa News.
“It’s crazy to think that he’s my age and he’s still playing. It just shows how well he’s looked after himself.
“He’s a player with a lot of experience so a lot of new boys will be able to lean on him.
“He still plays, he’s still versatile and can play in a number of positions so why would you not want to have somebody like that in the squad? Especially if they’re a good character.
“It wouldn’t surprise me if they sign him on another year-long, short-term deal.”
Across two spells at Villa Park, Young has made 237 appearances in all competitions.
In other Aston Villa news, players could now be fighting for their futures at Villa Park with a mid-table finish all but secured.