Podcast presenter Dan Bardell has stated that Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa has not reached the same level of performance he displayed last season.
In recent weeks, things have not gone so well for the Villans. A poor showing against Arsenal saw Dean Smith and his side not only lose 3-1 on the night, but it also meant they have failed to win in their last three Premier League games.
Having played the full 90 minutes in all of those games, Konsa may well be in line for some criticism. This was certainly the stance Bardell took while talking as the host on the 1874 podcast.
He said (32:33): “I don’t think he’s near the levels he was at last season, you know? It’s kind of gone a bit under the radar. I’m not knocking him. I just don’t think he’s at the level.”
He later elaborated on his point, saying (32:52): “It could be the back three doesn’t actually suit Konsa. It could be something as simple as that, you know.
“I don’t feel like he’s made as many blocks as he did last season so far in games. It’s not that he isn’t putting his body on the line, I just don’t feel like he’s been as effective defensively.”
TIF thoughts on Ezri Konsa and Aston Villa…
Up to this point, Konsa has started in every single Villan’s Premier League outing. Taking this into account, there’s no doubting how key he is for Smith.
Still, a mixed bag of results sees Villa languish down in 13th spot on the table. Last term, Konsa drew praise for his fine performances which helped the club achieve their highest league finish since 2011.
Has Ezri Konsa lost form this season?
Yes
No
Such was his form, in fact, the Athletic even claimed that Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur were interested in signing the 24-year-old.
However, in the eyes of Bardell, Konsa just hasn’t reached the same ‘level’ as he did last season – which may be reflected in their current poor run of form.
In other news: ‘There was a little bit of shouting’ – Gregg Evans reveals Aston Villa dressing room drama