Aston Villa stars ‘worried’ by source’s Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain update – Hutton
Alan Hutton has insisted Aston Villa midfield stars will be “worried” as Steven Gerrard eyes a summer move for Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.
The former Claret and Blue defender, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the Midlands giants needs “competition for places” as they vie for a European berth in the 2022-23 season.
An Aston Villa source has told Football Insider that Gerrard is a huge admirer of Oxlade-Chamberlain, 28, and has made him a top priority in the remainder of the window.
It is understood that the midfielder will cost around half of the £22million asking price clubs were quoted last year due to his contract having just one year to run.
Gerrard wants to use the England international in an attacking role – a berth which is currently occupied by the likes of Philippe Coutinho, Emiliano Buendia, and Jacob Ramsey.
Hutton suggested existing Villa stars must “embrace” Oxlade-Chamberlain’s arrival if a deal can be reached.
“They’re well-stocked in that area,” he told Football Insider‘s Russell Edge.
“Oxlade-Chamberlain will have to prove himself. But Steven Gerrard has got the best out of the likes of Philippe Coutinho before when he’s been out of form, and this is a similar situation.
“You’d be worried if you’re a midfielder at Villa right now. I’m just saying how I would feel if I was in that position and someone with the quality of Oxlade-Chamberlain came in.
“They’ve got to embrace it and see it as an opportunity to show what you’re worth.
“It’s competition for places, and you need that if you’re going to be going for those European spots. That’s where Aston Villa see themselves.”
In other news, ex-Fifa official issues “bizarre” claim as controversial Aston Villa star footage analysed.