Aston Villa’s Kodjia shows why a footballing talisman is so important

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Jonathan Kodjia’s fantastic form for Aston Villa proves why a talisman can be so vital in the world of football.

On a number of occasions so far this season, including the recent game against Leeds United, Aston Villa have had their backs against the wall. Whether it was under Roberto Di Matteo or Steve Bruce, the Villans have looked as if they were staring defeat in the face before one man stepped up to save the day – Jonathan Kodjia.

Throughout the years every side has had that kind of player at one point or another, who can get them out of trouble no matter how poorly they are playing. In big cases it can be Thierry Henry or Alan Shearer, meanwhile a great example in terms of a player who may not necessarily be there for too long is Ebanks-Blake at Wolves.

At this moment in time, Villa are still growing as a team. Despite some of their recent victories their performances have not been up to a great standard, and that’s where Kodjia comes in. His natural finishing ability as well as his strength on the ball makes him a firm fan favourite, and the important thing is that supporters can put their trust in his skill and composure.

Of course, the big issue standing in the way right now is Kodjia’s call-up to play in the Africa Cup of Nations. The term one-man team can be thrown around a lot and Villa’s dependency on the forward certainly goes back and forth, but this plays into the idea of why having a talisman can make or break your side.

It is important to find that balance in which you can also use players like Kodjia to build up the young talent around him.

One way or another he will only be gone for a few weeks, but it will be a huge test of Villa’s credibility this season.

Knowing that one of your players has that natural gift to change the course of a game at any time is a great attribute to have.

It increases ticket sales, helps the atmosphere of the crowd whenever they get the ball and generally improves the confidence of the players around him. It is a win-win for everyone involved and long may it continue for Villa.