Aston Villa expert’s verdict on Leon Bailey quitting after ‘frightening’ twist
Aston Villa star Leon Bailey will not want to leave the club this summer.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, former Villa and Rangers defender Alan Hutton hailed Bailey, 26, for his “frightening” form this season.
After a slow start at Villa Park following his reported £30million move from Bayer Leverkusen in 2021, he has emerged as a key player for Unai Emery having bagged 14 goals and 13 assists in all competitions this season.
His contributions in the Europa Conference League have been vital for them reaching the semi-finals and his goals in Villa’s recent Premier League wins against Arsenal and Bournemouth could prove crucial in earning Champions League qualification.
Leon Bailey will not quit exciting Aston Villa project – Hutton
Hutton claimed he would be baffled if Bailey wanted to exit the club as they are on an exciting trajectory under Emery.
“I’m not concerned about Bailey leaving at all,” he told Football Insider.
“It took him a while to settle in at Villa and there were those fears about his ability.
“But he’s really kicked into gear and is now going from strength to strength after signing his new deal.
“What I like about him is that he’s a team player – that’s how it comes across to me.
“If he doesn’t start but comes off the bench, he gives everything.
“He was the game-changer against Lille – he was frightening.
“I don’t think that he would want to leave Villa now, especially if they get to a European final and the chance of the Champions League.
“He’s playing with a smile on his face – why would you leave?”
In other news, Arsenal plot new bid for Aston Villa star with midfield star set to quit – sources.
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