Dean Smith Praises Nakamba’s Defensive Qualities After Win Over Arsenal

Aston Villa boss Dean Smith has hailed Marvelous Nakamba’s defensive contribution after the team’s 1-0 win against Arsenal on Saturday.

Nakamba who has been linked with a move away from Villa, was handed his third start of the season for Aston Villa, replacing Brazilian midfielder Douglas Luiz.

The 27-year old former Club Brugge midfielder gave another solid performance at the base of the midfield, winning seven over nine ground duels, made five ball recoveries, two Interceptions and six tackles more than any other player on the field helping Villa to complete a double against Arsenal.

Speaking after their 1-0 win against the Gunners, Smith highlighted Nakamba’s defensive qualities and importance to Aston Villa.

“I felt it was best to rest Douglas for this game and ‘Naka’ has came in and gave us some really good energy. He’s more of a defensive midfielder than Douglas and gives us something as little bit different,” said Smith in a qoute from Birmingham Live .

“Marvelous has came into three games now and we’ve kept three clean sheets now so I know the players who are on the sidelines at the moment aren’t happy being there but I know they will do the business when they’re called upon,” said Smith.

Defensive midfielder’s role tend to go unnoticed but they hold the key to the fortunes and success of a team. They act as a shield to the defence and goalkeeper, breaking up attacks to relieve the back line and providing a link between the defence and midfield.

Aston Villa have won 11 clean sheets so far this season and have now equalled their last season’s points tally with 17 more games to play.

They are currently on the 8th position on the log with 35pts from 21 games.