Aston Villa: Leon Bailey deserves new contract amid ‘difficult ride’ as Villa Park news emerges
Aston Villa look set to hand Leon Bailey a new contract as Dan Bardell believes his form this season has warranted an improved deal.
Reports emerged from Fabrizio Romano (5 February) that a verbal agreement had been reached for the Jamaican international to sign a new long-term contract at Villa Park, with the paperwork set to be completed sooner rather than later.
The 26-year-old’s new deal will not only extend his stay with Unai Emery’s side but also reward him with a higher wage following his impressive Premier League campaign as Villa battle it out for a Champions League place.
Bardell believes Bailey has done well to come through what has been a “difficult ride” for the winger with the Villans after he suffered injuries in his first season at the club.
Speaking exclusively to Villa News, Bardell said: “He deserves a huge amount of credit for how he’s turned it around. He looked a little bit lost over the last two years. I’ve always thought there’s a good player there and something in Leon Bailey, but I wasn’t convinced it was ever going to come out at Villa Park.
“But to be fair to him this season, from day one he’s knuckled down and always let Unai Emery know he’s there even though he’s not always been in the team. Now when he’s starting games, he’s been Villa’s best player over the last six weeks and definitely their most dangerous attacking player.
“I still think there’s levels to go for him, he needs to find a level of consistency. I think he’s found that to an extent, but there is another level to go for him, but he’s chipped in with important goals this season.
“It’s been really pleasing to see how he’s come through because players do adapt to different leagues at different times. He suffered with injuries badly in his first season, so it’s been a difficult ride for him at Villa. But he’s done really well and he deserves that new contract.
“If you asked Villa fans last season to name their best 11, I don’t think many would have put Bailey in there. But if you asked the same question now, every Villa fan probably puts him in their team.”
Leon Bailey continues to impress for Aston Villa
It’s been a hugely impressive season for Bailey so far as he’s scored some big goals that have helped his side earn three points during this campaign, prompting the club to hand him fresh terms.
The Jamaican now appears to have nailed down a place as one of the first names on the teamsheet and he’ll be looking to continue providing an impact over the next few months.
The winger’s attacking influence on the side could prove to be the difference in where they finish this season as he looks to help Ollie Watkins score the goals to ensure it’s a successful year at Villa Park.
In other Aston Villa news, Unai Emery may have contacted his former club after a Villa player exit has been confirmed.
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