Aston Villa’s academy star Bradley Burrowes is enjoying a stellar season for the U-21s. With a lack of goal threat from open play in the last month, could the England youth international be the answer to Unai Emery’s problems?
At just 18-years-old, Bradley Burrowes has been a mainstay in Villa’s U-21 team he has even captained them in a few of the games this year.
So far this season, he has played 10 times in the Premier League 2, scoring 9 goals and registering 3 assists. His raw speed and clinical finishing make him dangerous every time he goes forward.
The versatile winger made his debut with the first team at the start of the current campaign, coming on as a substitute in the 74th minute against Crystal Palace. At the beginning of the Europa League league phase, he was named in multiple matchday squads, proving how highly Unai Emery rates him.
Burrowes also recently signed a new long-term contract with the club, showing that the coaching staff clearly sees him as an integral part of the future of the squad.
The talent he already possesses provides him with the platform to develop into one of the most exciting prospects in England.
Villa’s problems at right wing
In the last few months, Jadon Sancho has fulfilled the right wing position. He has strung together a number of good performances, but was injured in Villa’s friendly fixture against Elche last week. The 26-year-old is expected to be ruled out for 2-3 weeks.
John McGinn has returned from injury and has operated in that position; however, the Villans look a better side when he is in the No 10 slot, next to Ollie Watkins. His energy and leadership have been crucial, and Villa have dearly missed it.
This leaves Leon Bailey as the other player to act as cover, and let’s face it, his performances have been subpar at best since his return in January. He was once a player who looked so dangerous on the right, now looks like a complete ghost of himself.
Adding Burrowes to the mix would certainly improve things. Giving a player, who will be hungry to showcase what he is capable of, an opportunity to feature may be exactly what Villa needs.
A fresh face in the team may bring more energy, and his current form could carry over into the Premier League, giving Unai Emery the goals he needs.
The final stretch of the season is a pivotal time for the club as they hunt for Champions League qualification. For 2-3 weeks, why should they not give Burrowes a chance to make an impact?
Perhaps he could be the difference maker, perhaps not. But it’s a risk Villa can take given the lack of current goals in the squad.
