Whelan issues Ludwig Augustinsson claim after Aston Villa twist
Noel Whelan has warned Aston Villa backup Ludwig Augustinsson he could be “targeted” by Leeds United as he prepares for his first game in English football on Sunday (2 October).
The former Whites striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, admitted the loan star must prove his worth to Steven Gerrard with a good performance at Elland Road.
The 28-year-old turned in two 90-minute displays for Sweden during the international break – his first minutes of the 2022-23 season.
As quoted by Birmingham Live (30 September), manager Gerrard revealed fans will be seeing Augustinsson “very soon” in the wake of an injury to Lucas Digne which will keep him out for a “few weeks”.
He also admitted the left-back has been “frustrated” with his lack of minutes since joining Aston Villa on loan from Sevilla in July.
Whelan suggested Augustinsson will carry confidence into Sunday’s game after his international outings.
He told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “He’s not coming in cold.
“He has had two full, good games for his national side. Now he’ll feel ready and confident of coming in and taking his opportunity.
“Lucas Digne is a very important player for Aston Villa, but Augustinsson has got his chance – and that’s what happens when there are injuries.
“He’s not coming in without any confidence or game time. He’ll be looking forward to this game now, and looking forward to keeping his place and proving to Steven Gerrard that he is the number one full-back.
“I’m sure, however, that Leeds United will be targeting that area.
“With this being his first game in English football, they might see that as a weakness that can be exploited.”
In other news, medical insider names new Boubacar Kamara return date as Aston Villa handed major boost.