Emi Buendia to be Aston Villa game-changer as injury recovery continues
Dan Bardell has backed Emi Buendia to be a game changer for Aston Villa after he stepped up his injury recovery in the Under-21s’ win over Fleetwood Town.
The Argentina international started a match for the first time in 479 days, last featuring from the start against Tottenham in May 2023.
On his return, the 27-year-old netted a brace and impressed throughout as the Young Lions secured a 3-2 win in the Bristol Street Motors Trophy.
Sky Sports and talkSPORT journalist Bardell believes the attacking midfielder will have to be patient but will be a useful asset for Unai Emery’s squad this season.
Speaking exclusively to Villa News, Bardell said: “It’s a case of him getting games now. Villa have felt that they couldn’t throw him into Premier League games.
“It will come and it will be difficult for him and I’m sure he’ll be eager to play but I’m sure he’ll understand that there’s got to be an element of patience.
“Buendia’s time will come this season. He is going to be in the 20-man squad every week. This is the next step in his journey, getting some minutes under his belt for the first time since his injury against Fleetwood.
“It will be great to have him back because at points last year Villa lacked something from the bench and they could bring him on to change games if they get a fully fit Buendia.“
Emi Buendia to be Aston Villa game changer amid injury recovery
The diminutive Argentine is a fan favourite who has certainly been missed after his spell on the sidelines.
There were many occasions last campaign where his attacking influence could have been useful to change games and results.
Now Emery has plenty of attacking options in his squad which will certainly make it difficult for Buendia to return to regular first-team football.
The addition of Morgan Rogers has only made that task more difficult for the former Norwich City sensation.
Supporters are looking forward to his return at Villa Park after a year of singing his chant on the terraces in support of his injury recovery.
In other Aston Villa news, an international star makes a starting claim to Unai Emery after what he did this week.
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