ASTON VILLA BOSS Dean Smith has admitted Conor Hourihane “wasn’t happy” about his recent absence from the club’s starting XI.
The Cork native was a key figure in his side’s 2-0 victory at home to Newcastle in last night’s Premier League clash, contributing a goal and an assist.
The 28-year-old has not been an automatic starter for Villa this season, despite registering five goals in all competitions, making him the club’s top scorer.
O U T S T A N D I N G. @ConorHourihane ⭐#AVLNEW #AVFC pic.twitter.com/2Dvtb2ztrA
— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) November 25, 2019
Hourihane has started just five of his side’s 13 Premier League games this season amid an indifferent start, though last night’s win brought them up to 15th in the table.
In addition to contributing to key moments, the Irish international had a fine all-round display, as 42 out of his 43 passes were successful.
"That wand of a left-foot does the trick again!" ✨
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) November 25, 2019
Conor Hourihane with one straight off the training ground! 🎯
📺 Watch on Sky Sports Premier League
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And speaking to reporters last night, Smith said: “He’s answered me back in the best way.”
These two. 🥰
— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) November 25, 2019
Post-match reaction from @JackGrealish1 and @ConorHourihane... #AVLNEW #AVFC pic.twitter.com/pVnV9lcNpd
The coach added that Hourihane had been particularly annoyed at being left out of last month’s match against Manchester City.
“He’s got a goal threat. He wasn’t happy when I left him out of the side at Manchester City away. I understand why but it’s a squad game and he understands that I have decisions to make. I knew we’d spend a lot of that game (Man City) defending but, with this game, I knew we’d have a lot of the ball. He’s answered me back in the best way, his last three starts he’s scored three goals: Norwich, scored against Brighton which was wrongfully ruled out and scored again today. I’m really pleased for him.”
On the impressive individual display, Hourihane himself said: “[Set pieces are] a main strength of my game I suppose, and every opportunity that comes along, I try to take it.”
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