Reputable writer Pete O’Rourke has given his opinion on what Leon Bailey could be able to provide Aston Villa for the next campaign.
The short break down: Bailey’s difficult first year at Villa
The winger, who cost £25 million to buy from Bayer Leverkusen last summer (BBC), struggled to have the effect he wanted at Villa Park because of recurring injuries that caused him to miss nine games with a thigh issue.
The 24-year-old, who had contributed directly to 65 goals in 156 games for Leverkusen, came in the Midlands and had a fairytale debut as a Villan with an assist against Watford in the Premier League.
However, despite only playing for 754 minutes in the Premier League last season, a knowledgeable observer has stated that Steven Gerrard may regard Bailey as a new addition to the squad going into the 2022–23 season.
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The latest: “Like a new signing”
According to O’Rourke, the 17-cap Jamaica dynamo may still be a “top performer” for Aston Villa the next season.
Leon Bailey did arrive with a lot of expectations on his shoulders following that significant transfer from Bayer Leverkusen, the man remarked.
“Fitness issues kept Villa fans from seeing the best of him, but I’m sure he’ll be hungry to prove a point this season and can show he can be a top performer for Aston Villa because he’s definitely got it in him. If he goes and hits the ground running, he could almost be like a new signing for Villa.”
The conclusion: Tough ask
Emiliano Buendia, Bertrand Traore, and young prospect Jaden Philogene-Bidace are all at the manager’s disposal in the wide areas now that Philippe Coutinho has been permanently acquired.
However, there is no question that Bailey, a “explosive winger” according to football talent evaluator Jacek Kulig, can push his way into the 42-year-plans old’s and, more crucially, stay there when he is at his best and fittest.
In 18 appearances for the Midlands side last season, the versatile Jamaican, who is valued at £22.5 million, registered one goal and two assists in a stop-start maiden season in England for the attacker.
Bailey could still have a significant impact on Gerrard’s team. He shares stylistic similarities with players like Sevilla star Lucas Ocampos, Lille sensation Timothy Weah, and Everton forward Demarai Grey (FBRef) and possesses many of the necessary attacking qualities to succeed as an elite-level winger (WhoScored).
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