Ibrahim Mbaye marked his first Aston Villa start with an assist as Unai Emery’s side beat Coventry City 3-1.
The winger supplied the corner for Ross Barkley’s 40th-minute header, restoring Villa’s lead before half-time.
That contribution came at an important moment. Victor Torp had cancelled out Tammy Abraham’s opener, but Mbaye’s delivery allowed Barkley to put Villa back in front.
The Guardian’s match report described an inswinging corner that found the unmarked midfielder at the near post.
Abraham later added his second goal to secure Villa’s place in the Carabao Cup fourth round.
Ibrahim Mbaye earns Emery praise
Mbaye joined Taylor Harwood-Bellis and Matteo Ruggeri in making full debuts, with Villa confirming the trio’s selection in their official team news.
Emery welcomed the winger’s performance afterwards. In comments reported by Jacob Tanswell, the manager said: “Mbaye also responded well.”
The assist gives Mbaye a concrete contribution to build on. His delivery helped decide a match in which Villa needed a response after conceding their early advantage.
Tottenham selection is the next question
Our confirmed Coventry line-up showed Mbaye starting alongside George Hemmings and Abraham.
Whether he retains a place against Tottenham remains Emery’s decision. A productive cup appearance strengthens his case for further involvement without settling the weekend selection.
For Villa, there is encouragement in a new attacking option making an immediate contribution on his first start. Mbaye now has a performance, an assist and his manager’s praise to build on.
