As reported by Birmingham Mail, Aston Villa have received a significant boost in the pursuit of Charlie Austin after the Southampton striker reportedly snubbed a move to West Bromwich Albion this summer. This could serve as an indicator of Austin’s desire of moving to Villa Park. And it is believed that the Saints are ready to get rid of the experienced attacker, who was left out of the club’s training camp in Austria.
Austin’s spell at Southampton
Austin initially joined Southampton in a €5.2 million move from Queens Park Rangers back in January 2016. He showed a lot of promise in his debut campaign at St. Mary’s, notably scoring six goals in just 15 league matches, helping the club from the south coast achieve an impressive eighth-placed finish during the 2016/17 campaign.
The 30-year-old scored seven league goals the following season. But, his progress was marred by an unfortunate hamstring injury as Austin ended up mustering just over 1,000 minutes of league football.
The former Burnley man did, however, endure a difficult spell at St. Mary’s Stadium last term despite the lack of any injury problems. He even failed to reach the 1,000-minute mark and often played second fiddle to Danny Ings, who ended up scoring seven goals as opposed to Austin’s two. Even Shane Long mustered more minutes and scored more goals than the experienced attacker.
What can he bring to the table?
Austin is a traditional centre-forward who relies on his physique and requires his teammates to provide him with adequate supply in the final third. He plays on the shoulders of the last defenders while his tall 1.88m frame gives him a considerable advantage from headed duels. And this allows Austin to act as a target man inside the penalty box.
Furthermore, the 30-year-old also loves to test the opposing ‘keeper, having averaged an astonishing 2.9 shots per game. And this is coupled with the aggression that makes him an ideal striker for the physically demanding nature of the Premier League.
Should Aston Villa make a move for Austin?
Aston Villa have already reinforced the attacking department with the addition of Wesley. Manager Dean Smith also boasts the services of Jonathan Kodija. But, both the strikers have no real experience of playing in the Premier League.
Austin, in that regard, could be a useful addition to the squad. The 30-year-old can provide backup for Wesley while his physical and aerial prowess will allow the Villans to employ crossing-oriented gameplay, especially with the likes of Anwar El Ghazi and Jota roaming out on wider positions.
