Former Villa striker turned pundit Stan Collymore has been giving his views on why a Jack Grealish return to his boyhood club would not suit Unai Emery’s squad at the moment.
Former striker Stan Collymore believes Villa should target pace on the flanks rather than a potential Jack Grealish return - and is wary of possible “constant media focus” if he made the move.
Jack Grealish's last game on loan for Everton came at Villa Park in Januaryplaceholder image
Jack Grealish's last game on loan for Everton came at Villa Park in January | Getty Images
There have been tentative links suggesting potential interest in a return for former skipper Grealish, 30, of Manchester City.
But pundit Collymore is happy Villa instead turned to the “raw pace” of Alejandro Garnacho to help the refresh of Unai Emery’s attacking options. Villa are likely to continue to hunt for reinforcements in the final third with lots of moving parts before the September 1 transfer deadline.
Grealish spent last season on loan at Everton, where he enjoyed some success and could be subject to Toffees interest in a permanent deal.
Asked for his thoughts on possible Villa interest, Collymore told 10bet: “No, I don’t think Jack is a good fit for Villa nowadays. I’m a huge fan of his, but Villa desperately need direct pace on the flanks.
“Evann Guessand left for Crystal Palace, Donyell Malen was sold to Roma after limited minutes, and Leon Bailey's effectiveness has waned.
“Grealish’s game has evolved differently at Manchester City – he receives the ball wide, retains possession, and recycles it inside to central midfielders.
“Villa require direct wingers who can beat their man on the outside and drive to the byline.”
Collymore added of Villa’s attacking loan recruit from Chelsea: “Garnacho brings raw pace and a point to prove under Emery. I watched him dismantle Villa’s right flank from the stands at Stamford Bridge last season – beating Matty Cash repeatedly, cutting inside, and delivering low balls across the box.
“Furthermore, Emery maintains total authority over his squad dynamics.
“Bringing back a high-profile figure like Grealish would create constant media focus around his minutes and selection, which could disrupt the structure Emery has built.
“Villa have established themselves in elite European competition through tactical discipline, and Garnacho fits that dynamic much better at this stage.”