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Elphick? Good Bad & Ugly From Bournemouth Fan

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I`ve asked DJ over at Vital AFC Bournemouth his opinions on the strong links to Aston Villa buying their defender Tommy Elphick

See also our forum thread on the defender: Click Here (stronger language in forums)

1) So … Aston Villa are looking to buy Elphick. What are your thoughts?

It’s sad, he will always hold a key part of our history, being the captain that lifted the famous Football League Trophy.

He has been a mainstay in our defence through our climb through the leagues, winning promotion from League One in 2013 and then the Championship in 2015. Not only has he played a key role in that side as a player but he is also a leader.

It’s a part of our history that will never be replicated.

2) Are you surprised that AFC Bournemouth are willing to let their captain go?

Not really. Eddie Howe has shown he has a ruthless side when he wants to improve the squad and Elphick’s lack of pace was at times really evident in the Premier League following promotion.

For us to continue to improve and build in the top flight the defence will have to be strengthened and despite his leadership qualities, as a player he’s going to be displaced if further additions are made.

3) Were his injuries last season a reoccurring problem through the years or just bad luck in the last campaign?

His injury last season was not a reoccurring problem, as far as was made public. He’s had achillies problems in the past and has shown that he does sometimes take a long time to rediscover his form and fitness when he’s been sidelined but the injury itself was announced as a chipped bone in his ankle sustained in a match.

4) What skills will he bring to Aston Villa?

He’s a solid leader at the back. Something that from a distance looked to be missing last season for Aston Villa.

He also brings experience of the Championship and a knowledge of how to be successful at that level.

5) Anything to add DJ?

It’s difficult to know if Aston Villa are getting value for money at the current moment in time with the market being flooded by the new television money.

He cost AFC Bournemouth somewhere in the region of £100,000 and we have had the best of him due to his age, turning 29 later this year and with only one year remaining on his contract it seems amazing that he could be worth in-excess of £3million.

It seems a very good deal for the Cherries, but of course, he could prove a very important part of a successful season for Aston Villa and if that ends in promotion then he will be seen as a bargain by everyone at Villa.

With thanks to the man with the biggest grin you could ever wish to see, DJ over at Vital AFC Bournemouth

Our latest poll asks if you think Elphick would be a good signing, so let us know!

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