“He will go there” – Former PL boss backs Chelsea star to stay at loan club beyond current season

Tim Sherwood backs Chelsea star Ross Barkley to extend his stay at Aston Villa

Speaking on Soccer Sunday on Sky Sports via HITC (h/t Birmingham Live), former Aston Villa boss Tim Sherwood has backed Chelsea loanee Ross Barkley to stay at Villa Park beyond this season.

The Englishman has been in fine form since joining Dean Smith’s side on loan in the summer. He formed a strong partnership with skipper Jack Grealish much to the joy of Villa.

Currently out injured, Barkley’s loan to Villa has so far proven to be an unmitigated success for all parties.

“I think Ross has been great for them and I see him staying at the football club.”

Sherwood has backed Barkley to witness in person the majesty of Villa and realise how big of a club they are. He believes the midfielder has seen the back of Chelsea.

“He has seen the back of Chelsea now. I think he will go there [Villa]. He would have walked into the doors and seen how big that football club is.”

As things stand, Barkley remains a part of Frank Lampard’s future for Chelsea. His performances have not grown unnoticed. Chelsea boss Lampard has already informed the player that he has a place at Stamford Bridge going forward. (h/t Birmingham Mail)

Perhaps smartly, Chelsea did not include a buyout clause in the loan deal that took the player to Villa Park. Any potential deal will see the ball in our court. (h/t Birmingham Mail)

Barkley has, over the years, been considered a player with high potential. Unfortunately, he has largely proven himself to be an inconsistent performer.

Given his performances at the moment, he could assure himself a brighter future – whether it be at Chelsea or Villa.

More Chelsea News

• Philippe Coutinho opens up on future amidst Chelsea interest
• Chelsea manager Frank Lampard urges Hakim Ziyech to create his own legacy at the club
• Joleon Lescott concerned about Tammy Abraham thanks to Timo Werner

While we don’t deny Villa has a rich history, they are nowhere near their glory days anymore. Chelsea today represent a better choice for players seeking glory and if Barkley truly desires instant success, he will do better if he returns as an improved player to Stamford Bridge.

Failing to continue his good form could see the Blues willing to let him go. After all, Chelsea loaning him out has to do with us having better players at our disposal.

What happens remains to be seen.