Aston Villa were “wasteful” with their set-piece delivery during the loss against Newcastle, according to Noel Whelan.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the “final ball was lacking” for Steven Gerrard’s side during the away defeat.
Aston Villa had six corners to Newcastle’s three but failed to take advantage of the hosts’ defensive frailties during the 1-0 loss at St. James’ Park on Sunday (13 February).
WOW!!
Kieran Trippier puts Newcastle in front! What a free-kick!
#NEWAVL pic.twitter.com/CrDoAt8rNp
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) February 13, 2022
Speaking post-match and quoted by Birmingham Live, Gerrard admitted Villa’s lack of opportunities was “concerning” – also claiming his side’s set-plays were “poor” during the clash.
Whelan suggested the former Rangers boss is still “learning a lot” about his Aston Villa side.
“Everything comes down to the delivery, and it was wasteful at the weekend,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“They’ve got players like Lucas Digne and Phillippe Coutinho
able to provide quality from those sorts of situations – that’s what their game
is all about.
“Set-pieces can win and lose you football matches, and that was the case again for Aston Villa against Newcastle. They created chances but the final ball was just lacking, it never really happened for them.
“They weren’t the same side going forward that we saw
against Leeds United. They’ve got to make these dead-ball opportunities count, especially
when chasing a game.
“Gerrard will still be learning a lot about his side and about the Premier League. It’s not easy, and he’s finding that out.”
Aston Villa have scored the joint-sixth most league goals from set-pieces this term.
Gerrard’s side sit 12th in the Premier League following the loss.
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By: Noel Whelan
Title: Pundit swipes at Coutinho & Aston Villa teammate after ‘Concerning’ reveal in last 24hrs
Sourced From: www.footballinsider247.com/aston-villa-news-pundit-digs-at-coutinho-and-teammate-after-concerning-reveal/
Published Date: Mon, 14 Feb 2022 19:30:00 +0000
