Noel Whelan tips Steven Gerrard to replace Ezri Konsa

Ezri Konsa was outstanding for Aston Villa last season, playing in 36 of their 38 Premier League games as they conceded 46 goals and picked up 15 clean sheets. The 24-year-old was being considered for an England call up off the back of his form too, but he’s spiralled this campaign.

Konsa remained a regular alongside Tyrone Mings at centre-back but hasn’t been in the best form and may not commanding a starting place next season. Villa have recently completed a deal for Sevilla’s Diego Carlos, so the 24-year-old might be the one that is pushed out.

Noel Whelan believes the 24-year-old is expendable, telling Football Insider: “I think clubs as ambitious as Villa will always be looking to upgrade. I think Konsa is a player they will be looking to improve on this summer. Getting someone next to Tyrone Mings may be the priority.”

Villa wasted little time signing Carlos, so Steven Gerrard already has his centre-back for next season. And if James Tarkowski comes in from Burnley as expected, Konsa has a tough task keeping his place. Kortney Hause might be moved on too.

With how ruthless Gerrard was in replacing Matt Targett just weeks after being appointed manager, Konsa can’t take anything for granted. And with how quickly Villa are signing players this summer, it’s clear the manager has an idea in mind of how he wants the side to look next season.

Konsa may not be in that picture.

In other news, Charlie Nicholas tips Aston Villa to sign Calvin Bassey