How do James Bree’s performances compare to Alan Hutton’s?
Aston Villa sealed the signing of promising full-back James Bree this week, snapping up the young talent from Barnsley.
The 19-year-old had established himself as a regular for the Tykes, and will hope to win a starting berth for Villa immediately.
Barnsley’s James Bree (L) in action with Fleetwood Town’s David Henen
In his path is 32-year-old Alan Hutton, who has had his fair share of critics at Villa over the years but has been a regular for the club this season.
Bree is the future of Villa’s right-back position, but is he good enough to dislodge Hutton here and now. Fans will hope so, but here is a look at what the stats tell us based on this season’s performances.
| Passing Accuracy | Won Tackle | Interception Won | Outfielder Block | Effective Clearance | Total Att Assist | Crossing Accuracy | Appearances | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| James Bree | 65% | 18 | 21 | 5 | 76 | 18 | 25% | 19 |
| Alan Hutton | 67% | 17 | 31 | 8 | 64 | 10 | 14% | 18 |
If Villa fans want to see more attacking from their full-back then Bree is the player Steve Bruce should be selecting.
He has created eight more chances than Hutton this season, with a higher crossing accuracy.
Aston Villa’s Alan Hutton in action with Leeds’ Liam Bridcutt
Hutton has been more productive in terms of making interceptions but when it comes to winning tackles the pair are pretty much on par, with Bree making 12 more clearances than the Villa defender.
Bree is certainly worth the gamble for Villa even now, and his deliveries into the box should help get even better use out of returning striker Jonathan Kodjia.
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