Aston Villa's Bertrand Traore to benefit from Ross Barkley's injury
Bertrand Traore has been urged to grasp the chance to kickstart his Villa career during Ross Barkley’s absence.
Chelsea loanee Barkley is facing a period on the sidelines with a hamstring injury sustained early in last weekend’s 1-1 draw with Brighton.
And though that is a big blow to Villa, former striker Garry Thompson believes Traore could be the man to benefit.
The 25-year-old forward has struggled for game time and fitness since joining in a £19million move from Lyon two months ago and could make only his second Premier League start at West Ham on Monday night.
Thompson said: “The best option might be to move Jack Grealish into a more central position to replace Barkley and bring Traore in on the wing.
“They need to give him a run of games. So far he has not really shown what he can do in the Premier League so this could be his chance.”
Villa will head to the London Stadium aiming to make it four wins from four on their travels this season.
The hosts are hoping to welcome back striker Michail Antonio, who has missed their last three matches with a hamstring injury.
