Connect with us

Aston Villa

Bolasie signing is a real statement of intent from Villa

Aston Villa confirmed the loan signing of Everton winger Yannick Bolasie on August 25 and revealed he will wear the number 11 shirt. The 29-year-old joined Everton from Crystal Palace in 2016 but had only gone on to make 23 Premier League starts due to injury.

Bolasie ruptured his cruciate ligaments in December 2016 with 13 league appearances under his belt, just four months into his debut season with the Toffees and didn’t return until December 2017. He made 16 league appearances in his second campaign but hasn’t made the matchday since.

As a result, the DR Congo international has sought a loan move away from Goodison Park to get much-needed playing time again, and his arrival is a real statement of intent from Villa. Bolasie is sure to be rusty, but at his best he’s a top Premier League winger who is capable of beating anyone.

Bruce spoilt for choice in attack

Villa manager Steve Bruce is overstocked with attackers after Bolasie’s arrival, let alone the other loan signing of Anwar El Ghazi. The duo will compete with Andre Green, Alberto Adomah, Jonathan Kodjia and Rushian Hepburn-Murphy, Scott Hogan and Keinan Davis for minutes on the pitch, so Villa certainly shouldn’t have a problem with goals.

Bolasie should be a regular in the starting lineup when fit. He likes pulling players out of position and whipping balls into the box. The 29-year-old can also put chances away himself. Bruce has a lot of variety and should enjoy the selection headache that ensues from having so many players fighting for limited places.

Bolasie has a point to prove

After scoring and creating just six goals in 32 games for Everton, Bolasie has a lot to prove at Villa. He should favour playing one division below the Premier League as he gets used to regular first-team football again, and should use the opportunity to send a message to Everton that he’s back. He could put himself in the shop window for other sides too.

With three years remaining on his contract at Everton, Bolasie could yet forge a career with the Merseysiders if he has a good season at Villa Park. Supporters can’t believe their luck that such a talented Premier League player has arrived at the Midlands and their bid for promotion has taken a big boost.

Bolasie’s signing is a real statement of intent from Aston Villa. The club beat out a lot of competition and should reap the rewards from his influence.

Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

More in Aston Villa