Aston Villa manager Dean Smith has raved about Ross Barkley, as quoted in FourFourTwo.
Barkley joined Villa on loan from Premier League rivals Chelsea in the summer transfer window.
The attacking midfielder was not guaranteed a place in the Blues’ starting lineup, but the 26-year-old is doing well for the Villans at the moment.
Smith has spoken highly of the England international and has explained his decision to bring him from Chelsea.
The Villa boss said about Barkley, as quoted in FourFourTwo: “He’s someone I felt we needed. I look at the Premier League and you need legs in your midfield area because you’ve got to cover a lot of ground in a game.
“Ross does that. He’s got ambitions to get into the Euro squad at the end of the season. With the quality Chelsea have got, they couldn’t guarantee anyone minutes. His work ethic and attitude has been tremendous. He brings us that added bit of quality that we needed.”
Making an impact
Barkley has made an instant impact at Villa and has established himself as an important player in Smith’s team.
According to WhoScored, the former Everton star has scored two goals in three Premier League games for the Villans so far this season.
The Englishman seems to be enjoying himself at Villa Park and has formed a strong partnership with Jack Grealish in attacking midfield.
Barkley is a very good and creative player, and playing regular first-team football will only help him get back to his best.
With the Chelsea-owned player in good form, Villa will hope to challenge for the Premier League top 10 this season.
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