Matthew Upson stunned by ‘fantastic’ Aston Villa star after what he did vs Crystal Palace
One Aston Villa star emerged with even more credit in the bank despite a goalless draw against Crystal Palace.
Aston Villa were held to a 0-0 draw against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park, with the result certainly benefiting the hosts more than the visitors.
Unai Emery’s side failed to replicate the levels that have had them challenging for the Premier League title, though he will take some positives from the fact that they avoided defeat despite not being at their best.
However, one moment in the first half caught the attention of Matthew Upson, and it has been a familiar story for the Villans this season.
Youri Tielemans’ quality on show again for Aston Villa
While it’s often been Morgan Rogers getting the plaudits for Aston Villa this season, Youri Tielemans has arguably been their most consistent performer throughout the campaign.
The Belgian international has been a standout performer in the middle of the park, and it was the case again against the Eagles.
Aside from his usual ability to control the flow of the game, Tielemans also nearly registered an assist after a delightful through pass to Ollie Watkins.
Dean Henderson was out to close Watkins down, though the missed chance didn’t stop Upson from piling praise on Tielemans for his involvement.
Via Sky Sports+, Upson said: “His eyes lit up there, Watkins. Fantastic pass from Tielemans, he really had to put a lot of pace on it.
“He sees the movement, he’s got a tiny space, and he really fires the ball into him. Touch was a fraction too loose.”
Youri Tielemans’ game by the numbers
Tielemans only seems to get the praise he deserves when he scores a cracker, and yet his numbers each and every week showcase the things he does that largely go unnoticed.
Via FotMob, Tielemans completed 55 of his 63 attempted passes, with one chance created, despite playing in a deeper role.
He won three of his four defensive duels, made two tackles and completed four recoveries to ease the pressure on the defensive foundations behind him.
With that said, Tielemans is certainly at his best in a slightly more advanced role, and after the dreadful display of John McGinn, Emery may revert to that decision.
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