Aston Villa: Andre Green signs contract extension until 2020

High-flying 19-year old André Green pens a contract extension with Aston Villa. The new deal keeps him in claret and blue until “at least summer 2020.”

Villa fans were treated to a taste of good news Friday afternoon. André Green is staying with the club until “at least 2020.”

The “at least 2020” is the interesting tidbit from the official announcement on the club’s Twitter page. That’s the first time I’ve ever heard the language in a football contract. Perhaps there is an option year or two embedded into the deal, or perhaps it was simply worded awkwardly.

Nevertheless, this is a huge coup for Steve Bruce. Green is a prodigious talent at the wing position, showcasing explosive technical ability as a teenager. He will not turn 20 until late July. Remember, he was initially Bruce’s preferred option at left wing to begin the season, beating out both Albert Adomah and Robert Snodgrass. An awful hamstring tear left him on the sidelines for 4-5 months; The tear actually required extensive surgery to repair. A strain in the opposite leg has kept Green out for the latter parts of February and March, but he should be closer to making a return.

Villa Verdict:

The move obviously carries some risk of course. Green has a history of soft-tissue injuries. By my count, he suffered three individual hamstring strains in the last 11 months. Oftentimes, the greatest ability in sport is availability, and so far, Green hasn’t been too available. Still, this deal is a no-brainer. When fit and healthy, Green showcases incredible talent.

Next: Time To Hop on the Andre Green Hype Train

In particular, the wing positions are rather lacking at Aston Villa in terms of depth. Robert Snodgrass is a loanee who may not be with the club past this season. Albert Adomah turns 31 in December and Birkir Bjarnason gets shuffled around the midfield.

Green has the opportunity to make the Aston Villa XI his home for the coming seasons. Congrats, André! UTV.