‘He’s Outstanding’ – Exclusive: Pundit in awe of low-profile Aston Villa man after display
Gabriel Agbonlahor has heaped praise on “outstanding” Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa after his display against Burnley.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Villa’s record Premier League goalscorer claimed Konsa and his defensive colleagues Matty Cash and Matt Targett are “going under the radar” and should be in contention for an England call-up.
The 23-year-old has been a near ever-present this season and played the full 90-minutes in their surprise 3-2 loss to Burnley on Wednesday evening.
He registered three clearances, blocked one shot, intercepted the ball once, won six of his duels and finished with a pass completion rate of 76 per cent according to sofascore.
Asked by Football Insider for his assessment of the Englishman’s season so far, Agbonlahor said: “Konsa is one that I really like.
“I just hope Gareth Southgate is getting to see as many Villa games as he can because I feel Konsa, as well as Matty Cash and Matt Targett, are going under the radar a little.
“Their performances have been outstanding.
“Konsa for me is very good on the ball, he’s got that pace in behind and he can read the game. He’s just a very good defender.
“I just hope he can get a chance, all of them in fact.”
Konsa moved to Villa Park from Brentford at the beginning of last season for a £12million fee, reuniting with his former Bees manager Dean Smith.
He has now played 48 times across all competitions for the Midlands giants and has scored four goals and provided two assists.
In other news, Football Insider can reveal Barcelona have set their sights on signing an Aston Villa sensation by next week.