Aston Villa assistant coach Richard O’Kelly praises returning defender James Chester

Add as preferred source on Google

Aston Villa assistant coach Richard O’Kelly says that experienced defender James Chester has stepped up his training workload and is impressing.

As per the club’s official YouTube channel, O’Kelly says that Chester, who is yet to play a minute of senior action this season, is doing well.

He said: “James Chester has stepped his training up and he’s looking very good. He sounds very good as well. His personality and character is fantastic. It’s great to have him back. He’ll be a great return for the squad.”

TBR’s View – Can Chester force his way back into Villa’s plans

Chester made a huge sacrifice for Villa’s cause last season when playing through injury at a time when he was the only senior centre back available.

That has put him out of action for a long time, and in the meantime, Dean Smith has signed Tyrone Mings, Bjorn Engels, Kourtney Hause and Ezri Konsa.

Chester is now on the back foot in terms of forcing his way back into the plans, and perhaps might need a loan spell to get his fitness back.

But a return to the side in the EFL Cup would be a great stepping stone and reward for the hard work and patience he has shown to get himself back fit.