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This experienced duo could save Aston Villa’s season – opinion

Just as Aston Villa appeared to be building some Premier League momentum, their season has come crashing down around them. Despite getting the Villans out of the relegation zone, Dean Smith was dealt a killer blow when striker Wesley Morales and goalkeeper Tom Heaton both sustained injuries which have ruled the pair out until the end of the season. The duo have been absolutely crucial in Villa’s campaign to this point, and the hierarchy at the Midlands club have immediately set about replacing them.

Spanish veteran Pepe Reina has been linked with a return to the Premier League in Spanish newspaper AS and it was confirmed yesterday he would join the club on loan until the end of the season. The 37-year-old has been with AC Milan for the opening half of this season but has featured just twice, primarily being used in a back-up role behind Gianluigi Donnarumma.

Despite his age, Reina would make a perfect short-term replacement due to his vast experience across Europe. The Spanish stopper had regularly been playing for Napoli before joining AC Milan, making 37 Serie A appearances in his past three campaigns in the South of Italy.

Meanwhile, The Athletic has reported that Villa are also weighing up a move for Burnley striker Jay Rodriguez in a bid to replace Wesley’s goals. The Englishman has three in the Premier League so far this season and is hardly prolific, but Villa will struggle to find clubs keen to relinquish their assets mid-way through the season. While Rodriguez is not an ideal option, he can play through the middle and out wide, which is a trait Smith is reportedly looking for.

Both players who could arrive/have arrived at Villa Park are only short-term fixes, but that is precisely what Smith needs to keep his side afloat this season. Neither would be particularly expensive and with Reina’s short-term contract, along with Rodriguez’s Championship experience there is no significant risk should the club go down. But the hope in Birmingham will be that the experienced duo could save Aston Villa’s Premier League season.

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