While we had to wait to see him this season, Aston Villa defender Alex Moreno hasn’t disappointed since he returned from injury.
The 30-year-old went through a lengthy and difficult recovery from a hamstring issue that he suffered at the back-end of last season, with a late setback pushing his return back further in September.
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After a patient and gradual process though, he’s back playing regularly, and it has been a significant boost for Unai Emery given what his compatriot provides us with down our left flank.
While Moreno will be disappointed with his role in Brentford’s goal on Sunday as he arguably could, and should, have done better to prevent it, it was clear again that his defensive ability on the whole is continuing to improve as part of our collective effort.
Further, the attacking quality that he adds with his technical skill, energy and speed adds an important dynamic to our play, giving us another avenue down which we can go to try and unlock opposition defences.
All these factors helped make him an instant hit with the Villa supporters after his arrival in January, as he looks to be an ideal fit for the role and position in this specific Emery system and style of play.
If that wasn’t enough, Moreno’s importance and impact continues to evolve, as we’ve now seen him score twice in his six outings thus far, both of which were really well-taken goals.
The Spaniard has shown an instinct for making well-timed runs into the box, specifically towards the back post, and has displayed the composure and touch needed to put away chances once he gets into those areas.
Sunday’s goal at Brentford was a decisive one, as it drew us level and set the stage for Ollie Watkins to score the winner just minutes later, and so it’s a real boost to see Moreno reintegrate and make his presence felt so quickly after his eventual return.
It now sets up an intriguing battle between him and Lucas Digne to secure that starting role at left-back, as the Frenchman’s form and importance shouldn’t be forgotten given how impressive he has been this season when Moreno was unavailable.
Many Villa fans would arguably go with Moreno as he perhaps edges it when considering the whole package in both phases of the game. What is certain for now though is that he’s fully fit, looking sharp and back to playing a fundamental role for Villa as we look to sustain our pursuit of success this year.
A first @PremierLeague goal for @AlexMoreno! 🔥 pic.twitter.com/NXHZRKxc2U
— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) December 17, 2023