Aston Villa have seen a host of stars in action on international duty, with one Villan standing out as the most impressive by far.
Unai Emery will be delighted to have his squad back together after the international break, with a significant test against Wolves up next in the Premier League.
Aston Villa have nine league games to seal their fate in the Champions League next term, with the race for a spot among Europe’s elite still in the hands of the Midlands Club.
Given that Emery had failed to see his side win in their previous two league fixtures, the international break came at a time that could be seen as beneficial, giving the manager a chance to regroup.
One thing that’s for sure is that international duty has been enjoyable for one Villa star in particular, with Ezri Konsa shining on his England debut against Brazil at Wembley on Saturday evening.
Ezri Konsa was impressive for England against Brazil
When Kyle Walker was forced to withdraw after 20 minutes at Wembley, up stepped Konsa to fill in for the Manchester City ace at right-back.
The Villa man has had his ability to play on the flank ignited by Emery this season at club level, seeing his skills truly put to the test against the five-time World Cup winners.
As per Sofascore, the 26-year-old made one block, three interceptions and won three ground duels, all while maintaining a tidy pass completion rate of 89%, misplacing just four passes.
Putting the statistics aside, Konsa’s night was celebrated for his ability to contain the threat of Brazil, seeing him come up against the illusive talent of Vinicius Junior.
Ezri Konsa highlighted as ‘outstanding’ for England against Brazil
For a player who made a name for himself playing as a centre-back, it’s unsurprising that the Villa defender is having his performance against Brazil praised.
One figure who has taken the time to applaud the Englishman on earning his first cap in style is journalist John Townley, who branded the Villa man as “outstanding” on the Claret and Blue podcast.
“I thought he was outstanding, it was a baptism of fire in the sense that he was playing against Vinicius Jr and Rodrigo, I don’t think there are many harder tasks as a right back.”
“Superb from Konsa, I don’t think he was beaten once, he was very mature on the ball he was excellent as well.”
Townley, who watches Villa week-in-week-out, shared his belief that the 26-year-old had “proved” what he could do to those who don’t watch Emery’s side frequently, with those at Villa Park fully aware of his versatility at the back.
“I thought Konsa was immense, he was probably my man of the match.”
“Konsa just proved what Villa fans have known all along but this was a massive test for him but he did really well.”
Konsa’s performance comes at a critical time for Villa, who while enjoying one of their right-back’s displays on international duty, were left winded after seeing Matty Cash withdraw due to injury whilst representing Poland.
It will be hoped that Konsa can return to his club duties high on confidence after making his international debut as the Premier League hits a crucial stage.
