Like Villa's slow start to the season, the former Middlesbrough star looked lethargic, uninspired, and a shadow of the player who starred for much of last campaign. Indeed, in late August, he may have opened the door to a potential Villa exit in the not-so-distant future, despite being "happy" to be there.
He said, "I’m happy here [Aston Villa]. I love football. I love nothing more than just coming out on the pitch and playing football and that’s what I’m doing. I don’t think about anything else. I can’t predict the next 12 months or anything in the future. It’s just about playing football, enjoying my football and showing everyone what I can do."
But in recent weeks, the England international's strong form has reappeared for both club and country. Now, The Athletic reports that he will sign a new deal until 2031, which will make him one of Villa's highest earners.