Should Aston Villa have signed Gary Cahill this summer?
Ron Atkinson believes Aston Villa should have signed reported target Gary Cahill as he stated that he is like a ‘younger version of John Terry’.
Centre-back Cahill was a free-agent following the expiry of his Chelsea contract – he came through the ranks at Villa Park as a youngster.
But in May, the Sun reported that Cahill was on Villa’s radar, as the Midlands outfit had just earned promotion to the Premier League, at that time.
Speaking to BBC Radio West Midlands Football Phone-In (06/08/2019), former Villa manager Atkinson explained why Villa should have signed Cahill.
“One player I would have liked to have seen them sign was Cahill,” Atkinson told BBC Radio WM. “I know he’s gone to Crystal Palace, but I think Cahill would have been a good signing for them.
“Just to give that knowhow and experience. A bit like a younger version of John Terry when he came to the club.”
Cahill has since signed for Crystal Palace as Villa decided to sign a number of young and hungry players over the course of the summer.
Tyrone Mings was going to be the obvious capture, as was Kortney Hause, but along with them, Ezri Konsa and Bjorn Engels have also joined the club.
In terms of Premier League experience, that will come from James Chester, whilst John Terry, who is now assistant, can also provide feedback to the players.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
