Paul Merson has stated that Aston Villa’s transfer business in January was a ‘hit’, as he told Deadline Day on Sky Sports (31/01/22 at 3:35 pm).
The former Holte End hero added ‘no disrespect to Aston Villa’ but he doesn’t think Philippe Coutinho signs if Steven Gerrard wasn’t the manager.
Whilst transfer deadline day itself was relatively quiet for those in the Villa Park boardroom, it was still eye-catching throughout the month, both in terms of incomings and outgoings.
The main man of Gerrard’s art piece was the quick-thinking and paintbrush touch of Coutinho.
The Brazil superstar arrived on a loan deal from Barcelona, along with Lucas Digne, Robin Olsen and Calum Chambers – left-back, Matt Targett, was the most notable departure, as he signed a loan deal with Newcastle.
Merson was asked whether he thought Villa’s business in January was a ‘hit or miss’ and he shared this verdict.
“For me, hit,” said Merson. “I think if Coutinho gets anywhere near the heights he was at, then definitely.
“Lucas Digne is a good player. Calum Chambers is not as old as people think he is. He has been around a long time.
“But he is a good pro. He can play in a few good positions. I like it. Good signings. All three of them.
On general transfers: “A lot comes down to it (the manager). All the clubs have money. It’s about the manager and who they want to play for.
“Coutinho, no disrespect to Aston Villa, they are a great club and I was lucky enough to play for them, he wouldn’t have signed if Gerrard wasn’t the manager.”
Just like the summer, Villa are getting a pat on the back for the business they are conducting.
But that now has to translate out on the pitch and the club returning to Europe.
That won’t happen this season, unless Gerrard takes Villa on an incredible run, but the hope is that they achieve it next season.
That’s when the pressure will really be on these Villa players and Gerrard’s managerial skills will be put to the ultimate test.
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