Thread by @Philosopey, For those looking to get Barkley in, here's my report after he [...]

For those looking to get Barkley in, here's my report after he played against Liverpool and Leicester.

1. Average Position (No.20)
Looking good, very high up the pitch like a 2nd striker should. However this doesn't translate precisely what happened in 90' against Leicester. https://twitter.com/Philosopey/status/1317893537845841925

https://twitter.com/Philosopey/status/1317893537845841925

Against Liverpool, Villa concentrated more pressure in the middle 3rd to win the ball and counter attack. Here's the number of pressure applied throughout the match

A.Villa
Def 3rd : 76
Mid 3rd : 112
Att 3rd : 43

Compared to Liverpool's
Def 3rd : 41
Mid 3rd : 68
Att 3rd : 40

Barkley enjoyed the freedom making late runs into the box unmarked everytime they turned the possession.

He started the match very high, Almost levels with Watkins. However, Leicester was well shaped off the ball. Villa not at all threatening and struggle to form an attacking movement.

It was totally a different scenario against Leicester. Off the ball they formed 4-3-2-1 which effectively blocking progression of the ball from Villa's def to midfield. D.Luiz was struggling. After around 25' Barkley started to drop as no.8 to form an extra man in midfield.

After Traore was brought in at 81', he started to occupy the space in behind Watkins again.

At £5.9m, i still think he's a great asset to own especially with Aston Villa red hot form atm and great run of fixtures. However you have to be prepared that he will occasionally play deeper in the no.8 role.