Leon hails amazing impact of new boss
ASTON Villa winger Leon Bailey is feeling “great” under the guidance of Unai Emery and has praised the “amazing” impact from the new boss.
The 25-year-old Jamaican international signed for Villa after the departure of Jack Grealish, who left Villa in a £100 million transfer to Manchester City last year. Bailey has struggled at times in claret and blue, though, since completing a £30m move from Bayer Leverkusen.
The winger was limited to just seven starts last season because of injury and selection issues facing the player. However, he now looks to be finding his best form under the watchful eye of new boss Emery.
Prior to the winter break for the World Cup, Bailey scored the first goal of the Emery era in the 3-1 win against Manchester United at home while also registering an assist during the 4-2 loss in the EFL Cup to Erik ten Hag’s side just a few days later.
Speaking to Villa TV, Bailey spoke of the positive feeling among the group after completing their first day of training over in Dubai on Tuesday as the squad continue to prepare for the return of Premier League action on December 26. “The spirit within the group is amazing,” said Bailey.
“Even with the young lads coming up, it’s really nice to bond with them, share experiences with them and help them. It also gives us a lot of responsibility.
“It brings us together a lot and I think this is something nice that we’re here in Dubai, really bonding with each other, and most importantly working together to better ourselves for the coming games.”
Bailey went on to talk about life under Emery, outlining just how much he is enjoying playing under
the new regime since Steven Gerrard’s departure.
“I think it’s very clear how he wants everyone to play and we’re all adapting. We still have a lot of work to do but we’re getting there,” added the winger.
“The important thing is that everyone is confident and believing in what he is about. We’re just trying to do our best to capitalise on every bit of information he gives.
“My role has been good, I feel great. I think we’re playing amazing football and we just need to keep enjoying our football. That’s what I’m doing and it feels good.”