Ian Maatsen shines in ‘lovely’ Aston Villa debut cameo v West Ham
Aston Villa have kicked off the new season with a win after securing three points with a late winner against West Ham.
Jhon Duran scored, against the side he has been subject to transfer interest from, on opening day for the Villans to secure the victory.
The game hinged on three substitutes from Unai Emery with the trio combining as the Colombia international scored the winner.
This has seen Joe Hart pick out Ian Maatsen on his debut for his involvement in the build-up to the goal on Match of the Day on 17 August.
He said: “It’s a lovely touch from Maatsen to Ramsey to Duran, it’s a really clean finish. Maatsen left footed cushioned.”
Ian Maatsen shines on Aston Villa debut v West Ham
There is an air of positivity around the Villans after their late win and performance at the London Stadium on Saturday (17 August).
It was great to see new signings like Amadou Onana make such a positive impact in his first Premier League appearance for the club.
One player who was picked out for praise was Maatsen on his debut and there is good reason for that.
The Netherlands international only featured for 16 minutes but was able to make the most of that time with 12 touches [FotMob].
Although it was his attacking impact that has been praised, he was also solid defensively during his cameo.
With two tackles won and 100 per cent duel win rate, the ex-Borussia Dortmund loanee didn’t let anything past him.
His pass ultimately helped to create the space for the goal, finding Ramsey with a first time volleyed pass.
It was great vision from the left back which was matched by the execution to get the Englishman in behind the Hammers’ defence.
The midfielder made the most of the space to tee up Duran who lashed home past Alphonse Areola to confirm all three points for the Villans.
A positive performance on the day from Maatsen on his debut leaving supporters wanting more and optimistic for his future at Villa Park.
In other Aston Villa news, Dark horse named as new signing will have to wait for Premier League debut.
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