Ezri Konsa has impressed in his second season at Aston Villa, establishing a formidable partnership alongside Tyrone Mings at centre-back.
Only three Premier League teams have conceded fewer than Villa’s 24 goals this season, while just one has more clean sheets than their 11, and former Villa striker Peter Crouch believes Konsa is the reason why.
When asked via Twitter whether Villa are the league’s most-improved team from last season, Crouch replied in the Daily Mail: “There is no denying what an excellent year it has been. What impressed me was how solid they looked. I’m impressed by Ezri Konsa, who is blossoming into one of the finest young central defenders in the division.”
The 23-year-old has made 19 league appearances this season, scoring two goals. He has won 46 of his 76 aerial duels, blocked 20 shots, made 83 clearances, been dribbled past only twice, won 14 tackles and made 13 interceptions (WhoScored). He has been solid at the back and was even spoken about by Birmingham Live for a potential England call-up.
Konsa joined Villa from Brentford for just under £12m in 2019 and has gone on to make 51 appearances in all competitions. He is contracted with the Villans until 2023 and seems to have a bright future.
READ ASTON VILLA VERDICT
Crouch is right to lavish the 23-year-old with praise and maybe Gareth Southgate is paying attention to his progress as well.
Konsa has consistently impressed for Villa without getting a lot of plaudits this season, earning his place on merit. It is little wonder that many supporters have been clamouring for a new deal for the defender, based on the stability he has brought at the back.
