Aston Villa should trigger buy-back clause for Jaden Philogene after 100% Championship displays
Unai Emery could be forced to trigger the buy-back clause for Hull City star Jaden Philogene after his performances of late have shown Aston Villa they made a mistake.
Philogene left Villa Park in a £5million summer transfer move, but a buy-back clause of £15million was included in the deal should Emery decide he wants to bring him back. [Birmingham Live, 22 November]
The winger has been flying under the guidance of Liam Rosenior in the Championship, racking up nine combined goals and assists in his last nine appearances for the Tigers.
Twitter account The72 shared on 25 November, following Philogene’s goalscoring display against Swansea, his recent record of goals and assists, putting forward the question: “The best player in the league currently?”
It’s high praise for the 21-year-old, but having played 100% of the minutes he has been available for so far this season, his importance to Rosenior’s Hull side cannot be overstated.
With four goals from 11 starts, Philogene averages 3.6 shots per game and 3.3 successful dribbles per game, showing no fear of making things happen in the attacking third. [Sofascore]
The creative side of his game has also flourished in the Championship, racking up five assists and averaging 2.0 key passes per game, having created four big chances so far this season with a pass accuracy of 80% as he looks to give opportunities to his teammates.
One thing Emery may be especially impressed with is the defensive work rate Philogene has shown, averaging 2.3 tackles per game and 4.8 ball recoveries, with 8.6 total duels won at a 50% success rate, and drawing 2.5 fouls to ease the pressure on his team.
With performances as strong as he has shown so far this season, Villa may have no choice but to activate that buy-back clause to ensure his long-term future lies at Villa Park.
£15million, or a net £10million, is a great deal for one of the best players in the Championship, even if they let him go just months ago.
In other Aston Villa news, a broadcaster has reacted to injury news ahead of the Tottenham clash.