Boubacar Kamara has spoken of his delight after making his long-awaited Aston Villa return and scoring within a minute of coming off the bench against BG Pathum United.
The 26-year-old had not played for the first team since suffering a knee injury in January, but returned during Tuesday’s 3-1 pre-season victory in Thailand.
Kamara was introduced during the second half and made an almost immediate impact. Ian Maatsen’s low cross was only partially cleared before George Hemmings laid the ball back for the midfielder, who found the bottom corner.
Speaking to VillaTV after the game, Kamara said: “It feels good to be back. I’ve waited for this moment.
“I’ve worked hard during my rehab, for coming back stronger, so I’m happy to be here.”
Boubacar Kamara return gives Unai Emery a major lift
The Boubacar Kamara comeback is a significant positive for Unai Emery ahead of the new Premier League season.
Kamara has become an important part of Villa’s midfield when available, and his return comes at an important stage of pre-season. He is also now wearing the No.8 shirt after switching from No.44 this summer.
His goal provided another confidence boost after such a lengthy spell away from competitive action.
“I didn’t expect to score, it’s good,” Kamara added. “It’s good for the head. This goal will give me more confidence and I need to keep going.”
His comeback was particularly welcome on a day when Villa suffered another midfield concern. As ReadAstonVilla reported after the game, captain John McGinn was forced off after landing awkwardly on his left knee.
Villa have now recorded consecutive 3-1 victories during their Asia tour following Saturday’s win over Indonesia All Stars.
Emery’s squad travel to Hong Kong next, where they face Bayern Munich on Friday. Aston Villa confirmed the Bayern fixture as part of their official Asia tour schedule.
Kamara believes the difficult conditions in Asia will ultimately help Villa when they return to England.
“It’s very hot, it’s difficult to breathe,” he said. “But it’s good for the body. So when we come back to England, we’ll feel better.”
