Aston Villa’s Aaron Tshibola revealed that he needs to ensure that he is regularly playing first-team football and hinted that he may have to move in order to get it.
The central midfielder is currently on loan at Kilmarnock, his second loan spell of the season after spending time at MK Dons, and shared how he is enjoying life in Scotland.
“It’s a joy coming in here, being in the right environment was key to me and the team is on a high,” admits Tshibola, as quoted by the Daily Record.
“It’s great for me because I have to set that bar high and get above it.
“I speak to my coaches down south and they are always asking about my games, keeping track of how I’m doing.”
The 23-year-old continued speaking about his time at Kilmarnock and added that when it comes to his future he needs to ensure he’s regularly playing football in order to develop.
Tshibola suggested in order for that to happen, he may have to spend longer away from Aston Villa and perhaps spend more time at Kilmarnock in the future.
“The most important thing for myself is to continue my development and the only way that can happen is by me playing first-team games,” said the 23-year-old.
“At the moment I’m doing that and helping the team and we’re doing well, it’s important I don’t stagger that development.
“Obviously you can’t think too far ahead to next season but in the near future the aim is to continue to develop.
“If that means being reunited here in the future and going forward and making the right step we’ll see.”
The 23-year-old central midfielder joined Steve Clarke’s side in January on loan from the Villans, and has made five appearances for the Scottish club.
Tshibola’s contract with the Villans doesn’t expire until June 2020.
OPINION
The midfielder finally appears to have found club that he is happy at, as his time at MK Dons earlier in the season appeared to be a less than pleasant experience. The League One club ended his loan prematurely after he failed to impress in the 12 league appearances he made for them. It’s hard to argue with anything Tshibola has said about his future, as he really does need to be at a club where he plays regularly. After his failed loan spell at MK Dons, it’s hard to see him breaking into the Villans’ first-team anytime soon. Hopefully the midfielder does better in Scotland, but excellent displays at Kilmarnock still probably won’t be enough to get him in Steve Bruce’s plans for next season, especially if the Villans win promotion this campaign.