Aston Villa: Jacob Ramsey must be axed v Nottingham Forest, replacement ready
Aston Villa will be hoping to begin a winning streak after claiming a 2-1 victory against Fulham on Saturday 17 February amid a string of poor results.
Before the win at Craven Cottage, the Villans had only claimed one win since 6 January in all competitions, thrashing Sheffield United 5-0.
And despite getting back to winning ways, following back-to-back losses to Chelsea and Manchester United, Unai Emery must be keen to make a change ahead of Nottingham Forest on Saturday 24 February.
Aston Villa man stands out against Fulham
Jacob Ramsey looked to stand out against Fulham but for all the wrong reasons. Despite playing all 90 minutes, Unai should be contemplating hooking the 22-year-old against Forest.
His immaculate passing rate, maintaining a 90 per cent pass accuracy, should not be enough for him to keep a spot in the starting XI. [FotMob]
With 0 per cent of his shots on target, 20 per cent of his ground duels won, and being dispossessed three times, Ramsey failed to make the desired impact, which should allow for another player to be given a chance.
It was clear that Alex Moreno, the full-back behind him, was struggling with the speed and agility of Bobby Reid and Harry Wilson, picking up a yellow card due to two fouls, and winning just 50 per cent of his ground duels. [FotMob]
However, Ramsey was unable to help his teammate out and left him out to dry, with Emery replacing the left-back with Lucas Digne with 10 minutes of the match remaining.
Time for Morgan Rogers’ first start under Unai Emery?
A battle against Premier League strugglers Forest presents Emery with the perfect opportunity to deploy Morgan Rogers for his first Villa start since arriving from Middlesbrough.
The 21-year-old is capable of deputising anywhere across the front line, and although he looks to be more comfortable at the attacking midfield role, Emery may need him on the left wing instead.
Rogers registered two goals and six assists in the Championship before Villa swooped in for the youngster in an initial £8million deal, as per BBC Sport.
Due to Michael Carrick’s style of play, Rogers was expected to defend from the front, evidenced by his 70 per cent of tackles won in the second division. [FotMob]
Up against the threat of Callum Hudson-Odoi and Anthony Elanga, Moreno or Digne will need as much cover as possible, which would suggest Rogers should start against Forest.
In other Aston Villa news, a broadcaster doesn’t believe one Villa player’s injury is anything to worry about.
For more Aston Villa news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.