Chris Sutton furious with Aston Villa star after what he did vs Bournemouth – ‘Worst I’ve ever seen’
Chris Sutton was stunned by one Aston Villa star in their draw against Bournemouth, and not in a good way.
Aston Villa had to settle for a 1-1 draw away to Bournemouth on Saturday, which, when taking into account the Cherries’ recent form, is a result that shouldn’t be overlooked.
Bournemouth are now unbeaten in their last five Premier League encounters, having won their previous two against Wolves and Liverpool.
However, it could have been a very different story for the Villans had it not been for one of their most senior figures.
Lucas Digne slammed for involvement in Bournemouth goal
Lucas Digne offers plenty in attack for Aston Villa, but on more than one occasion this season, his tendencies to switch off defensively have been exposed.
And that was again the case against the Cherries, but this time even more so than usual.
Rayan, who was making only his second Premier League start since his move to the Vitality, found himself racing through on goal, and Digne had no interest in stopping him.
Just as the Brazilian cut inside of Digne, he stopped dead in his tracks and allowed the 19-year-old a clean run through on goal.
Unai Emery will have been livid with the lack of effort from the Frenchman, and that was pointed out by Sutton reacting to the goal via BBC Sport.
He said: “This is a big moment for Rayan. He gets inside Digne, and the full-back just stops, he gives up, and Rayan tucks it into the corner.
“That is the worst piece of defending I’ve ever seen. Emery should be hooking him off.“
Bournemouth exposed Unai Emery’s biggest concern with Lucas Digne
Digne has four assists from 17 chances created for Aston Villa this season, showcasing the quality that he has going forward.
However, his defensive stats against the Cherries showcase his weakness in that area, and it is something that Emery will have to find a way to address.
Digne was dribbled past on three occasions and lost eight of his 17 defensive duels, as well as having made an error for the goal.
As for what Emery can do about it this season, there is little he can do. Ian Maatsen is the typical replacement, though the Dutchman has showcased plenty of defensive frailties himself.
However, there is every chance that the Villans look to bring in another body in that area of the squad in the summer who specialises defensively.