Leander Dendoncker in absolute shocker for Aston Villa as exit speculation swirls
Leander Dendoncker was at fault defensively twice for Aston Villa in the 1-0 preseason defeat to Club America.
The Villans fell to their third friendly defeat in a row against the Mexican outfit in a dour end to their US tour.
Unai Emery made a whole host of changes at the break and Club America were able to capitalise on these changes to secure a win.
The Spaniard can’t have been happy with much of what he saw, especially in the second half where there was little to shout about.
The performance of Dendoncker from a defensive point of view will be discussed, especially given transfer rumours linking him away from Villa Park.
Leander Dendoncker at fault for Aston Villa v Club America
The Belgian has been linked with a move to Olympiakos. That’s according to Greek football specialist Steve Kountourou (19 July).
It is safe to say that Dendoncker hasn’t done himself any favours over potentially staying on in the Premier League with his preseason showing.
The versatile midfielder played as a centre-back in the clash and was caught out on multiple occasions for the opposition to score.
The former Wolves man got lucky for the first with a handball given by the referee saving his blushes given how far behind play he was.
Considering where he was meant to be playing, as the ball found the bottom corner the 29-year-old was outside the penalty area which isn’t really good enough.
For the eventual winner, his positioning was also at fault as he was a step off the pace to maintain Emery’s high line.
It is clear that Ilian Hernandez is being played onside by Dendoncker which will be one thing the Villa boss will take issue with.
These mistakes and lack of awareness could prove to be the end for the Belgian at Villa Park as the Premier League opener against West Ham nears.
In other Aston Villa news, Louie Barry must now impress Unai Emery as his latest loan deal is confirmed.
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