Aston Villa manager Steve Bruce could be weighing a formation change amid this summer’s transfer rumors. Based on the players linked to the claret and blue, a 3-center back system seems likely.
Two weeks ago, there was a post linking Hull City winger/fullback Ahmed Elmohamady to Aston Villa. At the time, most supporters dismissed the rumor as Villa have three right backs in the first team (James Bree, Ritchie De Laet, and Alan Hutton).
But then things changed.
The John Terry-to-Villa rumors garnered steam to the point it seems inevitable he’ll join Steve Bruce’s squad. ESPN FC since confirmed that Terry will indeed join Aston Villa.
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Last season, Villa held a top-five defense in terms of goals conceded. The central defense partnership of James Chester and Nathan Baker flourished in 2017. Undoubtedly, the signing of John Terry leaves Nathan Baker concerned for his spot in the starting eleven – one that he feels he earned.
But what if Steve Bruce looked at Elmohamady for a right-wingback role?
A three center-back system allows Terry, Baker, and Chester to play together. Moreover, it could potentially save Terry’s legs over the long-run of a full Championship season.
Two key Aston Villa defenders already have experience in a three-back system: captain James Chester is a stalwart for Wales alongside Everton’s Ashley Williams and Spurs’ Ben Davies. To the left? Villa’s own Neil Taylor, who mans the left-wingback role.
Bruce’s interest in Elmohamady may stem from his options on the right-hand side. Aston Villa have enough players, but none with requisite experience in a right-wingback role. Alan Hutton isn’t blessed with enough technique for such an advanced position. Same goes for Ritchie De Laet, who is coming off major knee surgery.
James Bree made his Aston Villa debut at right-wingback, but the former Barnsley defender is still just 19.
Likewise, Albert Adomah struggled in a handful of appearances, when asked to play RWB.
Between the signing of John Terry and Steve Bruce’s interest in Ahmed Elmohamady, a formation switch seems likely in 2017/2018.