Evann Guessand is eager to take his first steps in the Premier League, with the Aston Villa new signing eyeing a potential debut when Unai Emery’s side travel to Brentford this weekend.
The 24-year-old striker, recruited from OGC Nice earlier this month, was named on the bench for last Saturday’s opener against Newcastle but did not get on as Villa battled to a stalemate at Villa Park.
Guessand has already been handed two pre-season run-outs by Emery, who has spoken about the importance of adding more depth to his attacking options. Villa were short of cutting edge in their goalless draw with Newcastle, and the Ivorian’s physical presence and direct style could offer something different in the final third.
For Guessand, the move to England represents the biggest step of his career so far. After scoring 12 goals in Ligue 1 last season, he now has the chance to test himself the most demanding league in world football — and he is determined to make an impression on the Villa Park faithful from his recent comments.
Evann eager to get going
Speaking to the official AVFC website ahead of the game against Brentford, Guessand quoted the following:
"I’m really excited, because the first game I was not on the pitch.
I work every day with my team-mates, we train really hard to win the games, and now I want to show the fans who I am.
I just want to follow my dream, because to play for Aston Villa in the Premier League is one of my dreams.
Of course, I have many dreams as well, but this is one of them, and I just want to start it."
Potential debut
Evann Guessand's comments are the kind of quotes that managers love to hear — a player desperate for the chance to prove himself and ready to grasp it with both hands.
That mentality could be crucial this weekend. Brentford away is never straightforward, despite their opening day thumping away to Nottingham Forest. Their intensity and atmosphere can prove difficult at the G-Tech stadium.
Unai Emery's record against Brentford however, is exceptional in the Premier League. In his five games as Aston Villa boss against tomorrow's opponents, the Spaniard has never lost and has won on his last two visits.
He may be tempted to turn to Guessand’s hunger and athleticism to provide a spark tomorrow, having another striker “chomping at the bit” alongside Ollie Watkins could give Aston Villa a valuable edge as they chase their first win of the 25/26 campaign.
