Chelsea midfielder Ross Barkley has joined Premier League side Aston Villa on loan for the remaining of the 2020-21 campaign.
Aston Villa’s bid to cement their reign in the Premier League continues after narrowly missing out on relegation last season. Barkley marks their fifth capture of the window after already securing the services of Ollie Watkins, Bertrand Traore, Emiliano Martinez and Matty Cash.
Barkley was part of Frank Lampard’s side that took on Tottenham Hotspur in the fourth round of the Carabao Cup but was not called upon from the bench during the tie which ended in favour of Spurs via penalties.
The England International mustered 31 appearances in all competitions last seasons and endured competition from the likes of Mateo Kovacic. Following the injury-free status of academy graduate, Ruben Loftus Cheek and the potential arrival of Declan Rice from West Ham, Barkley’s game time was at potential risk.
Morning, Villans. 😉
Welcome to Aston Villa, @RBarkley8! 🙌
🟣 #WelcomeRoss 🟣 pic.twitter.com/hTBWEi1RDz
— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) September 30, 2020
Dean Smith delighted with the arrival of Barkley
Aston Villa manager Dean Smith expressed his pleasure after acquiring Ross Barkley as a valuable addition to the side’s midfield.
“Capturing a player of Ross’ quality is a real coup for our club and I am certain he will thrive here and improve our team.”
While the club released a statement that read, “Aston Villa is delighted to announce the signing of Ross Barkley on a season-long loan from Chelsea.”
The 26-year-old made his mark early in his career with boyhood club Everton following an eight-year stint with the first team. Barkley signed for Chelsea in a 15 million pounds deal in 2016, where he has scored 4 goals.
While the midfielder is ineligible to play in Aston Villa’s upcoming Carabao Cup tie against Stoke City, he might make his debut against defending champions, Liverpool.
He will hope to thrive in the middle of the park alongside fellow midfielders Douglas Luiz, John McGinn and Matty Cash.
Aston Villa have started their season on a high note with successive victories against Sheffield United and Fulham.
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