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Aston Villa: Robert Snodgrass adds front three versatility

By Josh Tonti

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - JUNE 10: Robert Snodgrass of Scotland in action during the FIFA 2018 World Cup Qualifier between Scotland and England at Hampden Park National Stadium on June 10, 2017 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - JUNE 10: Robert Snodgrass of Scotland in action during the FIFA 2018 World Cup Qualifier between Scotland and England at Hampden Park National Stadium on June 10, 2017 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images) /
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In case you missed it, Aston Villa Football Club acquired West Ham United’s Robert Snodgrass on-loan. The 29-year old Scotland international adds versatility across the front three.

Robert Snodgrass’ marriage to West Ham United lasted only eight months. After an expensive January move from Hull City, Snodgrass is dropping a division in search of more regular football with Aston Villa.

Snodgrass was brutally honest about Hammers’ manager, Slaven Bilic. In which, he blames his poor form on being repeatedly asked to play out of position. He may not be the only person to leave the club, either. West Ham is point-less to begin the Premier League season with an ugly -8 goal differential.

From two weeks ago: our piece here goes into the player that is Robert Snodgrass.

Like many of his signings, Steve Bruce has worked with Snodgrass before. The pair worked together at Hull City – one of the reasons Snodgrass agreed to a loan move. In his career, he has scored 93 times over 445 appearances, spread across the Premier League, Championship, League One, and cup competitions.

Villa Verdict:

Snodgrass is quite the coup for Steve Bruce and Aston Villa. He’s a genuine Premier League player at his best, something he has not shown in the better part of half a year.

However, what makes this deal so appealing, is the loan aspect. Despite West Ham struggling mightily, Aston Villa was able to pry away one of their veteran players for close to nothing. Where his fits into the manager’s plans is another question that needs settling.

Albert Adomah and Ahmed Elmohamady have created quite the impressive tandem sharing right midfield/right wing duties. Could Adomah move on to create more funds against FFP restrictions? It’s at least possible with Premier League and Championship sides interested.

Next: Player Grades: Villa vs. Bristol

Snodgrass already voiced his disapproval at playing on the left, where Andre Green currently stars. His best option for immediate playing time might be as the number ten, but that means one of: Josh Onomah, Conor Hourihane, and Jack Grealish must be dropped to the bench.

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