Jan Bednarek believes he made ‘a good decision’ choosing Aston Villa over West Ham United after leaving Premier League surprise-packages Southampton on loan, speaking to The Independent.
Whether Bednarek can help solidify Aston Villa’s crumbling backline remains to be seen. The Poland international has endured an error-strewn couple of years after all, and lost his place at St Mary’s following the outstanding form of summer arrival Armel Bella-Kotchap.
A confident and in-form Bednarek, however, could still prove to be an inspired addition. At his best, the one-time Napoli target is a belligerent, physical central defender, one capable of thriving with his back pinned firmly against the wall.
There is a reason why, despite some high-profile errors, Bednarek had offers on the table from both Aston Villa and West Ham on deadline day, turning down the latter in favour of the former (The Athletic).
Jan Bednarek chooses Aston Villa over West Ham United
“It was an emotional day. One minute I am going to West Ham, another minute Villa,” the 26-year-old explains.
“There were a lot of conversations with Southampton and all the managers. I ended up at Villa and I’m really happy with the decision. It was a good decision. It wasn’t easy because, if you have another option, you have to take the decision like an adult. This is real life.
“It was a tough problem but a good problem. I’m really happy I have these issues in my life, that I have to choose between two Premier League teams.”
Bednarek arrives at plug a gap created by Diego Carlos’ devastating Achilles injury. Steven Gerrard is confident that the £26 million Brazilian will play again this season. But Carlos is all-but certain to be out of action for a number of months.
Ezri Konsa and Calum Chambers have struggled for consistency in claret-and-blue. Bednarek, then, may be in contention to force his way straight into Gerrard’s XI alongside the left-footed Tyrone Mings.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
