Aston Villa journalist Ashley Preece has been sharing his thoughts on Villa midfielder Ross Barkley including his recent run of form and what the rest of the season could hold for him.
This comes after Preece made an appearance on a recent episode of the Birmingham Mail’s Claret & Blue Podcast where he spoke about a variety of topics concerning the Villans.
On the subject of Barkley, who has not started a game for Villa since their 2-1 defeat against Leicester City back in February, Preece had this to say about the midfield man. (15.29)
He said: “Before his injuries, he was incredible, a big powerhouse, goal-scoring midfielder, good for the big games. I’d like to see Barkley have a big say with 10 games to go, 11 games to go.
“I’d like to see him have a really good end to the season because he’s been lacking of late. He needs to come on song. Dean Smith mentioned confidence issues after Newcastle, and I think Barkley is one of them without mentioning him.
“I think Barkley has suffered a confidence issue with no Grealish next to him in the team. He’s looked sapped of confidence so I really want Ross to come back strong and silence his doubters because he’s a good player, he can help Villa.
“It’s in his interest as well, Ross. He’s got an uncertain future at present, and he wants to attract a move in the summer. I can’t see him getting back into Chelsea’s team with the way they’re playing so yeah, I really hope Barkley comes back into play because he’s handy, he’s a quality player on his day.”
Barkley signed to Villa back in September on a season-long loan deal from fellow Premier League side Chelsea.
Since arriving at Villa Park, the 27-year-old, who is currently valued at £18 million, has made 17 appearances for Villa prior to their Premier League clash against Tottenham Hotspur, scoring three goals and providing one assist along the way (per Transfermarkt).
TIF Thoughts on Ashley Preece’s comments on Barkley…
Given how Barkley has failed to score a goal or provide an assist for Villa since he scored the winning goal in their 1-0 win over Southampton back in January, and the fact that he has been in and out of the team in recent weeks, it’s understandable why Preece has some concerns over the midfielder.
Would you start Barkley against Tottenham?
Yes
No
With Villa set to take on Jose Mourinho’s Tottenham Hotspur side on Sunday, it will be intriguing to see whether or not Smith decides to start Barkley or keep him on the substitutes bench.