Aston Villa podcaster Andy Bates has made a claim surrounding Villa midfielder Ross Barkley and his current loan deal at the Birmingham club.
This comes after Bates recently hosted the latest episode of Villa-themed podcast Gather ‘Round The Lamp, where he discussed a range of topics concerning the Villans, including their 0-0 draw against Wolves in the Premier League last weekend.
On the subject of Barkley, who came on as a substitute for Villa during the second half of the game against Nuno Espirito Santo’s side, Bates had this to say on the matter.
He said: “He came on in the second half, replaced Morgan Sanson, who looked like he picked up a bit of a knock, and slotted into the No 8 position, just a bit more withdrawn from his usual No 10 role, so he’s probably not entirely suited to that.
“Looking back, he just seemed like such a positive signing for the club, someone that can take us on to the next level, that level of quality of player that we’ve perhaps not been able to attract for a good number of years going back to [Martin] O’Neill’s time, really. But it seems like his loan is in danger of really fizzling out and becoming quite forgettable.”
Barkley joined Villa back in September on a season-long loan deal from fellow Premier League club Chelsea.
Since becoming a part of Dean Smith’s squad, the 27-year-old, who is currently valued at £19.35 million, has made 16 appearances for Villa prior to their Premier League clash against Newcastle United, managing to score three goals and provide one assist in the process (per Transfermarkt).
TIF Thoughts on Andy Bates’ comments on Barkley and his spell with Villa…
Given how Barkley has come off the bench as a second-half substitute for his previous two appearances for Villa and failed to make an impact by scoring a goal or providing an assist on either occasion, may demonstrate why Bates thinks his time at Villa Park is in danger of ‘fizzling out’.
Do you think Barkley will stay at Villa beyond his current deal?
Yes
No
In our view, if Barkley can make a significant impact on a game when he gets the chance to start one between now and the end of the season, he has every opportunity to end his deal with Villa on a strong note – although time appears to be running out.