Aston Villa star Lovre Kalinic back in training, will it affect Jed Steer’s contract?

Add as preferred source on Google

Lovre Kalinic has confirmed on his Instagram account that he is back in training after a head injury during Aston Villa’s 2-0 loss to West Bromwich Albion – but that could have a knock-on effect for Jed Steer.

The 28-year-old has endured a difficult start to life since moving to Villa Park. The Croatia World Cup goalkeeper has kept just one clean sheet in eight appearances – conceding 15 goals.

He collided with Jay Rodriguez during the defeat to the Baggies. It saw him pick up a head injury that saw Jed Steer replace the former Gent goalkeeper at half-time. Steer has since played the last two matches.

But Kalinic has posted on Instagram, confirming his return from injury after returning to training. He is now expected to be involved for the match against bitter rivals Birmingham on Sunday.

Given that Kalinic is expected to return to the starting eleven without question, it leaves Steer in a difficult position. The 26-year-old kept a clean sheet last time out in the 4-0 win over Derby.

Loaned to Charlton Athletic during the first half of the season, Steer’s future at Villa is in doubt. He is in the final months of his contract at Villa Park.

With Kalinic returning so soon and expected to play against the Blues on Sunday, Steer will be forced to drop to the bench once again. His chance of impressing enough to earn a new deal are now unlikely.

Kalinic is not renowned for his injuries and he is expected to remain number one between now and the end of the season. Steer will leave in the summer if he is not given a new deal.

A lack of game time will surely prevent Steer from getting his chance. That, in turn, may prevent a new deal.