O’Neill given the most welcome of Villa headaches

Some people may have forgotten about Stewart Downing’s £10 million summer move from Middlesbrough to Aston Villa, I was certainly one who was guilty of letting it slip to the back of my mind, however, the England winger reminded everyone of his presence at Villa with an appearance this weekend against high flyers Burnley.

Downing made his Aston Villa debut with a 69^th minute substitute appearance, coming on in place of Steve Sidwell. The ex-Middlesbrough midfielder helped begin a move which eventually resulted in Emile Heskey’s equalising goal, hinting that he can have an effective part to play in the Aston Villa regime.

Downing’s return has come at the perfect time. The Christmas period is arguably the most hectic of the Premier League season. At a time where many people are getting ready to relax for the festive season, Premiership footballers are battling with several key games in a few days. It is without doubt a time that can make or break a clubs season. Downing will therefore not only provide competition for places, but also an extra quality midfielder and additional depth to the squad, something that cannot be underestimated.

Martin O’Neill is now left with a bit of a selection headache. Downing will compete for a place with the inform James Milner and the explosive Ashley Young. It is a problem that will be welcome for O’Neill and he will be hoping it drives the whole of the Villa midfield to perform their best. O’Neill has several options when it comes to how to utilise Downing. Obviously he is predominantly a winger – showcasing during his time at the Riverside his ability to beat players and provide crosses, however I believe that you cannot rule out Downing being utilised in a central role as well. Let us not forget that former Villa legend Gareth Barry emerged in a midfield role as a left midfielder before being moved to the centre. Downing, in my opinion, definitely has the ability to perform there. He is good on the ball and his technique and vision are also some of his strongest attributes. O’Neill also has the added bonus that one of Downing’s midfield contenders, James Milner, is one of the Premier Leagues most versatile players and can easily switch positions to make way for Downing.

Aston Villa fans will also be hoping the winger recaptures his eye for goal at Villa Park. During his last season with Boro’, Downing failed to score in the Premier League despite starting every game but the final one. It is something that Downing will look to rectify as midfielders Young and Milner are no stranger to seeing themselves on the score sheet. If Villa are to achieve their aspirations of a top four finish then they will need their whole team to chip in with a share of the goals, including Downing.

Only time will tell exactly how important a role Stewart Downing will play in the Aston Villa set up. He will obviously have to regain his match fitness and form first although his early return from injury is likely to inspire the Aston Villa squad, fans and Downing himself. Downing may have his fair share of critics but the youngster undoubtedly has the potential to be an important player for Villa. Returning a month before Christmas will also make Downing think there is still the possibility of a late surge for a World Cup place, something else that can only be good news for Villa.