Aston Villa player ratings v Leeds: Fringe man stars in 8/10 display
Goalkeeper and defenders
Sam Johnstone – 6: The Manchester United loanee had little to do in the first half, aside from picking the ball out of the back of his net. He could have perhaps commanded his box better for the goal, but the quality of delivery from Hernandez meant Villa were always under threat. His second half display was confident, and his deliveries forward were important
Alan Hutton – 5: A defender of his experience should not have been getting as wound up as he did, and perhaps should have seen yellow for a multitude of fouls. Put his side under threat time and again, and was finally booked in added time.
Chris Samba – 6: Despite his hulking presence, he did not really fulfil his duties to the standard expected of someone with his experience. He was no threat from set plays, while he simply offered a body at the back, with his passing leaving much to be desired.
James Chester – 6: A powerful challenge which crumpled Leeds winger Alioski was his highlight of the first half, evidently looking to set the tone for the clash. Unfortunately for him, the Whites dominated possession and he was tested time and again.
Neil Taylor – 6: The Welsh international would have liked to have had more of an effect down the left wing, with his crossing way below what would have been expected. At the back, he was tested by the brilliance of Samu Saiz, a battle he lost on more than one occasion.
Click below to see how we rated Villa’s midfield against the Whites…