The Aston Villa central midfielder has targeted a goal tally in double figures this season.
Aston Villa midfielder Conor Hourihane looked devoid of any pre-season rust as he bagged a hat-trick against Walsall on Tuesday.
Alongside Jack Grealish, Hourihane was the stand-out performer in Villa’s pre-season friendly, and showed a glimpse of why he could be a vital player for the Birmingham club this season.
The 27-year-old played an important role in Villa’s run to the play-off final last season, making 41 appearances and scoring 11 goals from central midfield.
Hourihane has targetted reaching double figures again this season, goals which could prove even more important if Grealish leaves the club this summer, as reports indicate he will.
In that eventuality, Villa boss Steve Bruce may consider giving Hourihane more attacking license and allowing him the freedom to put more emphasis on the attacking side of his game.
The Irishman cannot be expected to provide the same attacking spark as Grealish, who at times last season was unplayable, but with the departure of Robert Snodgrass, and potentially Mile Jedinak, Hourihane looks set to play a major role for Villa in the upcoming season.
Hourihane, who moved to Villa Park from Barnsley in January 2017, received a lot of love following his performance against Walsall, with some fans suggesting he could be influential next term.
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