Jack Grealish reveals he pestered Chelsea star Ross Barkley to join him at Aston Villa
Chelsea star Ross Barkley is enjoying an impressive loan spell at fellow Premier League side Aston Villa. The move has worked out well for both the player and Villa.
The Villans have skipper Jack Grealish to thank for the role he played in bringing the Chelsea man to Villa Park.
It proved to be an inspired decision. Barkley played a key role as Villa beat Liverpool, Leicester City, and Arsenal this season.
Speaking to Villa TV (h/t Birmingham Live), Grealish admitted that he and Barkley exchanged messages before the move was confirmed.
“It’s been really good, I’ve known Ross for a while now.”
Grealish wanted his friend to join him at Villa if he ever left Chelsea last summer. He got his wish when the midfielder signed for the Villans just days after their impressive win over Fulham.
“I was constantly texting him, before the Fulham game I was saying to him that if he was going to leave (Chelsea) then to keep us in mind.”
Grealish and Barkley have formed a dynamic partnership that has been to Villa’s good form. If they continue to keep it up and evolve, it could also draw the attention of English boss Gareth Southgate.
It could help in Barkley making the England squad for next summer’s Euros. Though the thought of that happening is hypothetical at this stage, there is no reason why merit should go unrewarded.
If all goes well, Barkley will have Grealish to thank for a turnaround in his fortunes.
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Barkley is currently recovering from a hamstring injury that is expected to keep him out for two-three weeks. Hopefully, he will return soon and continue to impress.
Chelsea boss Frank Lampard too is aware of the midfielder’s resurgence at Villa Park. It remains to be seen if the player has a future at the Bridge.