The divisive midfielder has earned Aston Villa a rather substantial fee thanks to his surprise switch to Premier League Burnley.
In an era of midfield specialists, it is still almost impossible to work out what Ashley Westwood would describe as a discernible strength. Whether passing, tackling or shooting, the former Crewe captain rarely excelled in any category so the news that Burnley have paid £5 million for his services, as reported by the Daily Mail, has provoked fits of maniacal, Midlands-twanged laughter.
It is fair to say Westwood was never much of a fan favourite at Villa Park. Yes, he hardly plumbed Joleon Lescott depths of villainy and his work rate and commitment could never be questioned but, the simple fact is, he continuously failed to convince across four-and-a-half years in claret and blue.
After all, you would not be expecting too much hoping your starting central midfielder manages more than three measly touches of a football inside 45 first-half minutes. Yet, Westwood’s dismal performance in a 1-0 defeat against Cardiff City in January appeared to be the final straw for Steve Bruce.
Does this reported Aston Villa move hint at key man’s future?
The 26-year-old featured only once more in claret and blue before completing his deadline day deal move to Burnley. For £5million. The phrase ‘snap your hand off’ comes to mind.
Westwood: decent technically, good passer and good attitude but not all action enough for us right now. Doesn’t dominate games. #avfc
— Villa Views (@ViewsVilla) January 30, 2017
Aston Villa shouldn’t be disappointed after Championship rivals swoop for reported target
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