‘I’m lost for words’ – Philippe Coutinho ‘non-existent’ against Bournemouth with Aston Villa boss Steven Gerrard missing plan B after ‘unacceptable’ display

Gabby Agbonlahor says that he’s ‘lost for words’ following Aston Villa’s opening day defeat to Bournemouth.

Steven Gerrard’s side traveled to the Vitality Stadium as clear favourites as they prepared to take on Scott Parker’s newly-promoted side, but fell to a shock 2-0 defeat.

Unfortunately, any feelings of optimism lasted just two minutes when Jefferson Lerma gave the Cherries a dream start in front of their home fans.

This was made worse 10 minutes from time when Kieffer Moore wrapped up the shock victory for the south coast club.

Villa named a side that was filled with Premier League quality, including Philippe Coutinho who has made his name as a star player with the likes of Liverpool, Barcelona and Bayern Munich.

However according to Agbonlahor, the midfielder has to improve quickly if he’s to be a success at Villa.

Speaking on talkSPORT’s Gameday phone-in, Agbonlahor said: “The big disappointment was [Philippe] Coutinho.

“He’s been brought in by Steven Gerrard and he was non-existent and didn’t really get on the ball.

“He needs to dominate games. He’s keeping a new signing from last year in Emi Buendia on the bench so he has to be taking the games by the scruff of the neck, getting on the ball, making things happen.

“He had a shot in the second half and it went horribly wide and you think, this isn’t Coutinho.

“Steven Gerrard has got faith in him but how long can you keep playing him? He’s not getting the numbers that he needs to play in that position.”

However it wasn’t just Coutinho who disappointed Agbonlahor, with the ex-forward saying that he was ‘lost for words’.

He said: “I look at the game today and I think, where was the plan B?

“We struggled to create chances or get the ball wide to Leon Bailey, but he wasn’t getting past anyone.

“You think, could they do with another striker in there? You know, to change your style of play.

“Gerrard needs to figure out his best team. He’ll make some changes next week against Everton at home because today was unacceptable.

“You think of the Villa fans who made that long journey to Bournemouth too. It’s not an easy place to get to.

“I’m lost for words.”

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By: Phil Spencer
Title: ‘I’m lost for words’ – Philippe Coutinho ‘non-existent’ against Bournemouth with Aston Villa boss Steven Gerrard missing plan B after ‘unacceptable’ display
Sourced From: talksport.com/football/1165573/aston-villa-philippe-coutinho-bournemouth-gabby-agbonlahor/
Published Date: Sat, 06 Aug 2022 20:59:26 +0000