The Dutch international Donyell Malen continues to impress. Whether it is off the bench for Aston Villa or with the Netherlands, the attacker finds ways to make an immediate impact after being subbed on.
During the World Cup qualifier between the Netherlands and Malta, Malen came on in the 72nd minute. In 18 minutes of action, the Villan scored twice and provided an assist for Noa Lang during the 8-0 victory.
It is something that Villa supporters are used to seeing by now. Malen being introduced late on and proving to be a highly impactful player, even in limited playing time.
This phenomenon has many calling for the Dutchman to see his minutes increased. While the club has Ollie Watkins up top, even putting Malen on the outside is something that Villa fans would enjoy seeing more, as long as it means having Malen on the pitch.
Whenever Malen enters the fray, he has an innate ability to threaten the opposition goal. An attack that can otherwise look stuck in the final third is seemingly unlocked and improved a lot of times with the introduction of the Holland international.
Potentially, this is partially explained through his having fresh legs and being eager to make a case for inclusion in the starting XI. Whatever the reason, quality is quality, regardless of when or why it happens. Consequently, many would love to see him have a greater run of play. He is both exciting to watch and effective.
Revisiting an older concept for Aston Villa
An opportunity to see more of Malen could come in the form of a previously discussed plan. Unai Emery always talked about the desire to play Watkins and Marcus Rashford up top together in a 4-4-2. Although that idea is not entirely dead, it is looking more doubtful than not that Rashford will not be able to come back to Villa for a season.
Instead, Emery should try the same idea but have Malen and Watkins as the given striker duo for Villa.