MON Key In Routledge Decision

Wayne Routledge had admitted that the main reason for his switch to Villa Park was Martin O’Neill.

It’s not the first time we’ve heard such things, we know for a lot of players Martin O’Neill is highly regarded and well respected so it shouldn’t be a surprise.

After the Defoe and Boateng will he, won’t he debacle some are a little disappointed that our trips to White Heart Lane were for a serially underperforming right winger, but we have to remember how highly rated Routledge once was. Yes he’s never pushed on and fulfilled the potential that people believed he had, but how many players have gone on to reach their potential whilst playing under MON.

Speaking on the official site, Routledge admitted as much in saying:

‘I am ecstatic. I can’t wait to start my Aston Villa career, it is a massive club and Martin O’Neill is a fantastic manager and he has done great things here already.

‘The manager’s record at bringing players through is amazing. If he can do the same with me, it will be good for Aston Villa.

‘To even be linked with a club like Villa and to be here signed is a massive privilege.

‘I am honoured. I just want to prove myself now. It is a forward step for me. When I heard about Villa’s interest, there was only one club I wanted to sign for.’

That will upset some, Villa bigger than Spurs!

‘The training ground is an amazing place. I have been shown around – it’s remarkable. It’s exciting times for the club.

‘Villa Park is a massive stadium, with great fans and superb atmosphere. I can’t wait to play there again.

‘Everyone has seen how well Villa have done this season. Martin has signed some good players in his time here and he has bought the best out of his team. I hope he can do that with me.

‘We have some exciting months ahead. Now, the hard work begins. I want to do well for Martin for showing faith in me and for the supporters.’

After all that enthusiasm I can’t resist, wonder if he can play right back?