Amadou Onana to become ‘high-level’ Aston Villa player as big game claim made
Dan Bardell believes Amadou Onana will be a big game player for Aston Villa, adding much-needed physicality to their team.
The Villans confirmed the signing of the Belgium international from Everton in a deal worth a reported £50million [Sky Sports].
In preseason the 22-year-old has been praised by supporters for his performances due to his presence, standing at six foot five inches.
Speaking exclusively to Villa News, Bardell said: “It’s early days but I think it’s clear that in the big games, Onana is going to be the guy.
“Villa aren’t going to spend £50m on someone for them to sit on the bench I wouldn’t have thought.
“Even though they are different types of players, I would say he is the replacement for Douglas Luiz.
“He offers a different skill set but I like what he offers because Villa have lacked a bit of physicality in midfield in particular without Kamara.
“He’ll give Villa physical traits that they haven’t had. I think he’s a good signing and I think he’s going to turn into a high-level player.“
Amadou Onana to shine for Aston Villa
By the end of last season, the Belgian wasn’t even a guaranteed starter under Sean Dyche at Everton.
After watching him for Villa in preseason so far, that seems very surprising given the quality that he so clearly possesses.
Featuring under Emery in a side that will look to have more possession and freedom on the ball could be just what Onana needs to thrive.
Combining with his fellow countryman Youri Tielemans against Athletic Bilbao, the former Lille star looked extremely comfortable and has been highly praised.
When Kamara returns from his injury, the midfield duo at Villa Park is going to be tough to beat which is exactly what typical Emery teams thrive on.
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