Phillips hails Cash ‘one of the best’ in Premier League after ‘surprising’ Aston Villa reveal
Kevin Phillips has hailed Aston Villa defender Matty Cash “one of the best full-backs in the Premier League” after today’s clash with Chelsea.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Claret and Blue admitted to being “surprised by how well” the 24-year-old has done since arriving at Villa Park.
Going into Boxing Day, Cash ranked first for duels, third for tackles won and sixth for crosses and passes into the final third in the Premier League this season. (PGR Analytics)
Speaking to Sky Sports (23 December), the right-back heaped praise on new Villa boss Steven Gerrard for his impact on the club.
He revealed how the “intensity of training” has increased since Gerrard’s arrival.
When asked by Football Insider‘s Dylan Childs for his assessment of Cash’s form, Phillips said: “I’ve been surprised by how well he’s done, I have to say.
“When he signed for Villa I was one of those who was not sure about it. I never saw it coming.
“The kid has really taken his chance. It’s amazing, how some players take their opportunity when they go to a big club. So many don’t perform as you’d expect.
“Cash is a very good player and credit to him.
“His comments this week about loving life under Steven Gerrard bodes well. I was a little surprised by the comments because I’m sure they were working hard for Dean Smith as well.
“He is a quality player though. The stats back that up. He can tackle, he can run and he is technically very good as well.
“Credit to the player. He is one of the best full-backs in the Premier League.”
In other news, Agbonlahor has claimed Buendia and his ‘outstanding’ Aston Villa teammate have been transformed.