Aston Villa confirmed the loan signing of Tyrone Mings on deadline day, with the Bournemouth defender set to spend the rest of the season at Villa Park. Dean Smith had been desperate to strengthen the backline and he’s killed two birds with one stone by recruiting the 25-year-old.
Smith revealed in his pre-match press conference that Mings is a centre-back first and left-back second and was recruited to provide balance among his central defenders in addition to offering backup to Neil Taylor on the left. That means fellow left-footed defender Kortney Hause might find himself on the periphery as a result of Mings arrival.
Supporters slaughtered the Wolverhampton Wanderers loanee after a disappointing debut performance against Wigan Athletic and he hasn’t featured in the Championship since. Tommy Elphick might find his spot up for grabs too, as Smith may want one left-footer partnering a right-footer at the back – Mings and club-captain James Chester.
There’s stiff competition for places now and Hause being left on the bench against Hull City and Ipswich Town in recent weeks doesn’t bode well for his chances of returning. Elphick could make way also, as Smith is unlikely to drop his skipper who has played in every league game since he replaced Steve Bruce as manager.
Crippy Cooke’s previous article
Opinion: Dean Smith has made a mistake allowing outcast to leave Aston Villa
