Travis Patterson to challenge Ian Maatsen for first-team Aston Villa role after Fleetwood showing
Travis Patterson could challenge new signing Ian Maatsen for a spot in the Aston Villa first team after his showing against Fleetwood Town.
The Young Lions secured a win in their opening group game of the Bristol Street Motors Trophy thanks to a late Kyrie Pierre goal against the League Two outfit.
Despite going 2-0 up, through an Emi Buendia brace, in the first half, the home side levelled proceedings with two quick goals after the interval.
The Villans’ squad featured first-team stars like Ross Barkley, Jacob Ramsey, Lamare Bogarde and Buendia but Patterson still managed to step up and stand out.
Travis Patterson to challenge for Aston Villa role after Fleetwood showing
Despite starting at left back, the 18-year-old drove forward at every opportunity which will be something to suit Unai Emery’s first team set-up.
This saw the England Under 19s international get three shots off while creating one big chance for his teammates [SofaScore].
The full-back will have been disappointed to have missed one big chance but his performance certainly deserved a goal.
Going forward wasn’t his only strength as he kept the Fleetwood wingers quiet throughout, winning three tackles and 70 per cent of his ground duels throughout.
If Patterson can keep up this form for the Under 21s throughout the campaign, there is a chance he could be challenging Maatsen as a main rival for Lucas Digne.
The Netherlands international has struggled for minutes since his move from Chelsea and when afforded minutes he has struggled to always make an impact.
Against Arsenal, the 22-year-old won just 50 per cent of duels and failed to have any sort of defensive impact on the game [FotMob].
If the former Borussia Dortmund loanee can’t find his feet at Villa Park, Patterson could be ready and waiting to step up.
In other Aston Villa news, last-second points deduction avoided after transfer developments.
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