OPINION
Aston Villa duo James Chester and Nathan Baker were the main centre-back pairing for Steve Bruce during the recently concluded season.
Tommy Elphick, who moved to the Midlands outfit last summer, featured in sporadic fashion while Micah Richards played only one game under Bruce.
It is quite clear that Elphick and Richards are not in Bruce’s first team plans, therefore, he should look to sell the duo this summer.
As a result, he should target Everton defender Phil Jagielka, who has a huge amount of experience in the top-flight, as a replacement for the duo.
The 34-year-old would add quality and depth to the Villa backline added with the fact that he could form a solid partnership with Chester at the heart of the club’s defence.
Villa’s defensive solidity next term could determine whether or not they will be playing Premier League football sooner rather than later.
However, with one year left on his current deal at Goodison Park, Bruce should make a swoop for the experienced man because he would help Villa earn promotion.
It remains to be seen whether the Toffees would be looking to sell their player but trying to add the England international to their ranks would do the club no harm.
He has great strength, leadership and an ability to read the game from the back which would suit Bruce’s style of play because he prefers a solid base before anything else.