Aston Villa star eager to show true capability after tough start
Donyell Malen is determined to deliver on his true potential at Villa after reflecting on a difficult first few months at the club.
The 26-year-old forward opened his tally for the season when he scored both goals in last Sunday’s 2-1 win over Burnley.
Malen was making his first Premier League start of the campaign and just his fourth since joining in a £21million deal from Borussia Dortmund in January.
The Netherlands international is eager to kick on further when Unai Emery’s team return to action at Tottenham on October 19.
Speaking about his early months in England with Soccer News, Malen said: “It wasn't always easy in a new environment, a new competition, and with a new coach. But that's part of it.
“I have to stop thinking too much about everything and focus on myself and the right things.
“Ultimately, I know I'll always come back to the top.
“An athlete's career doesn't always go from zero to a hundred; sometimes you take a step back, but that happens to everyone.
“I want to maintain this form with the Dutch national team and then pick it up again at the club. I know what I'm capable of. I want to show that at Aston Villa."
Malen revealed there had been some “honest” conversations with Emery about his form and how he could best help the team.
Sunday’s match saw him flourish in a central position and he explained: “We do have conversations more often. We're also honest with each other. He looks at what's best for the team and for me personally. We talk about that.
“It's more like he tells me how he wants it, and then I share my ideas and ask him what he thinks."
