Polish media react to ‘magnificent’ Matty Cash scenes away from Aston Villa
Aston Villa's Matty Cash was in fine form as Poland drew 0-0 with Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Unai Emery has switched between the Polish international and Aaron Wan-Bissaka at right-back so far this season.
However, the 29-year-old enhanced his case for the starting position permanently with a fantastic display on international duty.
The Villans star played the full 90 minutes but he could not help his side force the goal needed to win the contest at Stadion Narodowy.
That was not for a lack of trying, though, as he was a constant threat for the Poles.
He still earned rave reviews from the Polish media after his performance in the UEFA Nations League B group contest.
What did the Polish media say about Aston Villa ace Matty Cash's display?
The Polish media were very appreciative of Cash's effort, despite the fact the Eagles could not break the deadlock.
Polskie Radio 24 handed him a rating of six out of 10, saying: “A very average first half; in the second, he joined the attack more boldly - something he is known for. He delivered a magnificent pass to Zalewski, though we have seen him play better matches for the national team. Late in the game, he saved the team by desperately chasing down an opponent who was through one-on-one.”
Meczyki also handed him a six, saying: “He started sluggishly, playing relatively safe, but then he really got going up front. He attempted a dangerous shot from a tight angle, played a superb long ball to Zalewski, and also made a good pass to Skóra after a great pass from Zielinski. At the same time, he was solid defensively.”
Goal.pl gave the Villa ace a 3.5 out of five rating, saying: “One of the most active players on the Polish national team, Cash was comfortable attacking and regularly tried to move down the right flank. He came close to scoring in the 55th minute when he unleashed a powerful right-footed shot, but the Bosnian goalkeeper rose to the occasion. He lacked substance, but the 29-year-old’s activity cannot be denied.”
Weszlo handed him a six, saying: "Truly solid. We already know perfectly well what he can offer up front; there’s no need to even bother with colorful descriptions. Today, he suffered less from Alajbegovic’s good form than from the somewhat disoriented Skóra.
"However, he handled it exceptionally well, playing a role in the Poland national team’s most dangerous offensive moves. In the 55th minute, he unleashed a surprising shot from the edge of the penalty area, and in the first half, he connected perfectly with the attack after a brilliant pass from Zieliński. And when he threw the ball across the pitch to Zalewski into space... what a miracle.
"“Our team’s strong point, and perhaps the biggest threat in front of the Bosnian goal.”
Overall, the media were very positive about his display, even if his side could not manage the win.
Why the Polish media got it right with their Cash assessment
The national media are spot on with their talk about Cash's attacking display, as he was the creative spark.
According to Fotmob data, he created the most chances with three and attempted the joint-most shots with four.
The Villans star also made a total of seven passes into the final third, as he tried to get his side going forward.
Cash also helped out defensively, making five contributions, with two tackles, two clearances and one interception, as well as making three recoveries.
In terms of duels, he won two of six on the ground and one of three in the air, for a 33 per cent success rate in both areas.
Emery will hope that he can bring that back to B6, especially the very dangerous attacking elements of his showing.
If he can, he could help the Villans charge up the Premier League table, as they currently sit 14th in the table, after a slower than expected start to the campaign.