Ex-teammate issues emphatic Ashley Young claim after ‘massive’ Aston Villa reveal
Ashley Young has the “perfect” blend of quality and experience and will be a vital part of the Aston Villa squad for the 2022-23 season, according to Gabby Agbonlahor.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Aston Villa’s record Premier League goalscorer and Young’s former teammate delivered his verdict after the versatile midfielder, who turns 37 on Saturday (9 July), penned a new contract.
The club confirmed on Monday (4 July) he had agreed a one-year deal with his previous contract expiring at the end of June.
As quoted by club media, the former England international revealed his desire to continue to work under Steven Gerrard was a “massive factor”.
“What managers want and what Steven Gerrard will know is that experienced players are neededm,” Agbonlahor told Football Insider correspondent Connor Whitley.
“Yes, you want young players but you want the right mixture of young players, players in their mid-20s and players that are experienced and can advise the young players.
“It’s not just that, you want them to put in top performances and that’s what Ashley Young does.
“He can still get around the pitch like a player in his mid-20s when he’s in his mid-30s, you’ve got to give him credit for that. He’s the perfect player to be part of the squad this season.
“Lucas Digne had a few injury problems last season, so you need that cover. Ashley Young can play so many positions as well.”
Young rejoined the club last summer (2021) on a free transfer under Dean Smith and made 25 appearances across all competitions in 2021-22.
He now has 98 goal contributions in 215 games across all competitions across his two spells at Villa.
In other news, a finance guru has revealed Aston Villa are set for a £10million-a-year boost amid a ‘stadium naming rights’ claim.