Aston Villa confirmed the signing of Robin Olsen on a three-year deal from AS Roma, their fourth summer signing after Philippe Coutinho, Boubacar Kamara and Diego Carlos, but his permanent move won’t be welcomed by everyone at the club. Jed Steer had fallen down the pecking order when the 32-year-old originally joined on loan in January, so his hopes of playing for Villa again may be dead in the water now.
The 29-year-old joined Villa from Norwich City in 2013 and has gone on to make 36 appearances in all competitions. Steer made 16 league appearances in 2018/19 as the Claret and Blues were promoted back to the Premier League, but that’s the closest he’s come to nailing down a regular starting place.
Steer’s lack of playing time for Villa has led to a host of loan moves – Doncaster Rovers, Yeovil Town, Huddersfield Town, Charlton Athletic, Luton Town – so he’s had Football League experience when Premier League opportunities alluded him.
The 29-year-old was second choice this season until Olsen joined on loan, resulting in him spending the second half of the campaign at Luton. Steer has one year remaining on his deal at Villa Park, but he won’t want to spend next season on the sidelines.
In other news, Alan Hutton says Steven Gerrard will be sad to lose Michael Beale
