Is Wesley criticism unfair?

Wesley became Aston Villa’s record signing in the summer when they paid £22.5 million to Club Brugge for his services. The Brazilian has managed just 2 goals in 7 games so far this season for his new club.

The 22-year-old only averages 1.6 shots per game and some sections of the Villa faithful are calling for a change but is it unfair to write the Brazillian off already?

Writing Wesley off

First of all, I don’t believe by dropping Wesley means we are writing him off. Christian Benteke’s figures when he first signed for Villa were not too dissimilar. And that doesn’t mean I am saying he is the next Benteke.

He appears to be struggling at times playing in the Premier League but I am hopeful that given time he will turn things around. We need to remember that he is still only 22 and he is having to settle in a completely new country. The pace of the game is also different from the football he may have experienced in the past.

Dean Smith admitted that Wesley wasn’t at his best against Burnley and that the forward agreed. Already that is something to take positives from. The player has admitted that he is underperforming and he has a coach who appears to have a way of working with players.

Smith doesn’t seem to be worried by telling a player that they need to do better but unlike former managers (Steve Bruce comes to mind) he doesn’t just brush them to one side. There is something that Smith has seen in Wesley for him to sign him in the first place and he will give him time and also work with him.

Davis or Kodjia

Dropping Wesley doesn’t necessary we have lost faith in him. We have to be seen to be giving players a chance who deserve it. It will take the spotlight off the Brazilian while also giving overs an opportunity to shine.

Keenan Davis has impressed when we have seen him in action this season. His hold up play has been second to none and he looks hungry. Like Wesley, Davis will admit he needs to add more goals to his game. Only the coaching staff will know if he is ready for the step up. After all, he is only a few months younger than Wesley.

Jonathan Kodjia is fit again and back in training – with a mask! I have a feeling about the Ivorian in the Premier League. I really believe this division will suit his game better than the Championship but he is a confidence player. The way he can hold up the ball, turn a player and isn’t scared to shoot. His downfall will always be his work rate. Can he work in the current system?

One thing is for sure. Smith seems to have the option going into the Norwich game. I spoke earlier in the week about the need to close games out. Maybe freshening things up in the striker department may help this situation?