Aston Villa v Middlesbrough: Monk wants Traore to fulfil his potential

ALL the talk may be about a potentially definitive moment in Steve Bruce's tenure at Villa Park this evening, but it could also provide one for his Middlesbrough counterpart Garry Monk too.
Middlesbrough manager Garry MonkMiddlesbrough manager Garry Monk
Middlesbrough manager Garry Monk

Ex-Hull City chief Bruce is under growing pressure after an underwhelming start to the season, with fans booing his side in Saturday’s 0-0 draw with Brentford.

That has prompted Villa owner Tony Xia to call for unity after recently stating that ‘only results matter’ in a September of fundamental importance to Bruce, who could welcome back Jonathan Kodjia as he seeks a badly-needed lift this tonight.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Boro boss Monk, meanwhile, will be seeking evidence that Saturday’s polished 3-0 win at Bolton – which saw Adama Traore torment the hosts with an outstanding display – was not a one-off, more specifically in terms of the feats of the former Villa winger.

Traore has struggled badly for consistency at Boro, but his weekend display showed he could be a significant and – potentially decisive – weapon this season if he maintains those high standards.

Monk said: “I think your job as a manager, when you are working with players, is to try to help them realise what they can be, and what they need to do to reach their full potential.

“All of them are probably not at their full potential. But if you can try to help them see what they could be, then put that plan in place for them, I think that is what you have to do.”

Last six games: Aston Villa LLWWDD; Middlesbrough WWLWDW.

Referee: J Linington (Isle of Wight).

Last time: Aston Villa 1 Middlesbrough 2, November 9, 2008; Premier League.