Leon Goretzka has been backed to take João Gomes’ place in Aston Villa’s strongest midfield, with Dan Bardell favouring the German alongside Boubacar Kamara when everyone is fit.
The summer signing is still waiting to make his competitive Villa debut following his return to continue injury rehabilitation.
However, Bardell believes his eventual availability could reshape Unai Emery’s midfield.
Leon Goretzka tipped for major Aston Villa role
Writing for Roundtable, Bardell considered who should partner Kamara when Goretzka and Gomes are both available.
“I think Goretzka probably starts, particularly in the biggest games,” he wrote.
Bardell also suggested an alternative: using Goretzka further forward with Kamara and Gomes behind him.
That would create another decision over Johan Manzambi, whose ability to carry the ball through central areas Bardell wants Villa to retain.
Gomes has already made his case
Gomes gave Emery a strong reason to keep faith during the 3-2 victory at Tottenham.
The Brazilian recorded five tackles and three interceptions, while completing 23 of his 25 passes.
Those contributions mean Goretzka would be competing with a midfielder who helped Villa secure an important away win.
There is also the question of sharing the workload. Kamara played 444 minutes across Villa’s opening five league games, with European fixtures adding to October’s demands.
Our view is that Gomes’ performance at Spurs deserves weight in any selection debate. Goretzka’s reputation makes the competition intriguing, but his first task remains proving his readiness to contribute on the pitch.
