What started as more of a favour by the current Aston Villa manager to an old friend, could soon turn out to become something more protracted. If reports are to be believed, centre-half Christopher Samba is near to getting a professional contract from the Villans following some impressive performances in the pre-season tour.
The 33-year-old had mutually ended his contract with Greek club Panathinaikos in winter last season and Steve Bruce had allowed him to train with his squad. The Premier League veteran has been training with the side since February and Bruce has even been seen handing him first-team action. And alongside the experienced John Terry, Villa’s defence looked unshakeable.
When asked about how he has fared since joining five months back, Bruce said, “He’s trained very well. And from day one, it’s not as if he’s on trial, he’s just wanted to train and prove himself to us. He’s been excellent.”
Reports are claiming that Bruce is waiting in on further movements in his squad before he makes a final decision on Samba. And with Villa centre-half, Tommy Elphick becoming of immense interest to Championship sides Birmingham City, Sunderland and Leeds United, Samba’s future in Villa could be sealed in a few weeks.
Apart from Terry and Samba, Aston Villa still have the likes of Nathan Baker and Micah Richards as the first choice in the centre-half position and youngsters Easah Suliman, Kevin Toner and Jaco Bedeau, which reflects why exactly Bruce is stalling on his decision. However, Championship is known for its prolonged, hectic run and Bruce would definitely want someone with the experience of Samba to take up the cudgels as and when needed.
An academy product of FC Rouen, Samba came up through French side CS Sedan-Ardennes B before Bundesliga side Hertha BSC picked him up on a free transfer. Two successful years there and Premier League side Blackburn Rovers bought him in 2007, where the Congo international had his best five years.
It was soon followed by a number of moves to clubs like Russian side Anzhi, Queens Park Rangers, Dinamo Moscow and Panathinaikos. A free agent now, Samba could still be a huge presence for any side in the Championship. Of course, he has lost his sharpness, but the huge frame of 195cm can be tremendously helpful in any aerial duel.
He also possesses tonnes of experiences from his years of playing at the highest level. He has even played in the Europa League with Anzhi, Dinamo Moscow and Panathinaikos, which indicates just how crucial he could be for Villa next season.
Note: This article was published before Samba’s move to Aston Villa was made official.
