Report shares Dean Smith position on £16m ace frustrated by Aston Villa situation

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Morgan Sanson is becoming frustrated with his limited opportunities to feature for Aston Villa, but Dean Smith is in no rush with Jacob Ramsey the next in line, as per The Athletic.

Sanson displayed a glimpse of his anger on Friday night when Smith introduced Anwar El Ghazi at Arsenal. The Frenchman tore off his training top, hurled it to the ground and let his discontent out on some bottles. Attracting Craig Shakespeare’s attention from the bench.

The 27-year-old has only featured in the Carabao Cup for 42-minutes so far this term after sustaining yet another injury. Sanson marked his return from a knee injury by developing a hamstring issue at Chelsea. Altogether meaning he has not played in the league since April.

Sanson has been in Smith’s plans for Aston Villa’s last two Premier League games, but failed to enter the action. The situation seemingly hit a boiling point at Arsenal, however chances to change the picture are unlikely to be forthcoming. At least not immediately.

Ramsey is currently ahead of Sanson in Smith’s midfield pecking order and will likely utilise the Aston Villa product first. As was the case at the Emirates Stadium, with the 20-year-old introduced on 68-minutes and going on to score a stunning late consolation goal.

Smith to favour Ramsey over Sanson if Aston Villa change shape

If Smith looks to change Aston Villa’s shape following the defeat in north London, Ramsey – not Sanson – could come in. Joining fellow favoured options John McGinn and Douglas Luiz in the engine room, while Smith also preferred Marvelous Nakamba when resting Luiz.

Ramsey’s cameo against Arsenal marked his eighth outing in the Premier League so far this season. He has also started five of his outings, only not featuring against Brentford while obeying coronavirus regulations alongside McGinn.

Clearly, Smith’s preference of Ramsey during Aston Villa’s fixtures this term is frustrating Sanson as he looks to finally settle. The £16m January arrival from Marseille has endured injury setback after setback since moving to Birmingham. A record he will want to change.