Ross Barkley has set his sights on winning a trophy with Aston Villa
Aston Villa midfielder Ross Barkley
Aston Villa midfielder Ross Barkley(Image: PA)
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Ross Barkley is aiming to end Aston Villa's 29-year wait for a major trophy after returning to Unai Emery's first team squad.
The 31-year-old didn't play until October but has featured in the last five Premier League matches and scored for the first time in ten months in Sunday's win over Bournemouth.
In an interview with The Athletic, the former Chelsea and Everton midfielder has revealed how he has given up alcohol and is looking to extend his career.
He has also discussed his relationship with Unai Emery and his desire to bring silverware to Villa Park. The last time Villa won anything was in March 1996 when they beat Leeds United in the League Cup final and Barkley was just two.
Asked about Emery he said: “He’s clear. He doesn’t b*******. He loves me as a player. He saw me at Luton and was like, ‘How did you go down your career path?’.
"From leaving Chelsea to go to Nice, then from Nice to Luton — he couldn’t understand it. He said my talent shouldn’t have had the career path I’ve had.
"But sometimes, certain decisions you make throughout your career, maybe outside of football, affect that.
“I could have done things differently, but I feel everything’s made me become a better person.
“The best thing was making my debut for Everton, as well as my debut for England. That was a dream.
“Now, I’d like to win a trophy at Villa, because the manager’s time at the club deserves it, and the team deserve to play in the final and win a trophy.”
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