Nakamba gets Villa lifeline

ZIMBABWE international midfielder, Marvelous Nakamba, has  been given a lifeline at Aston Villa with manager, Steven Gerrard, challenging him to prove himself.

Gerrard wants the Warriors star to show more hunger.

Nakamba, who has not played a part in Villa’s campaign since the start of the 2022/23 Premiership season, failed to secure a move out of Villa Park during the previous transfer window after he was transfer-listed.

Speaking to Birmingham Mail ahead of their clash against Southampton, Gerrard said the players should show hunger.

“Nothing can change, as of now, the window’s shut so there should be a hunger, and a will to want to perform, and do the best they can.

“They (Nakamba and Sanson) are contracted to Aston Villa and I’ll certainly get a feel of all those players, of where they are at, with their thinking.

“With what they tell me, and the feedback I get, we’ll go from there.

“First and foremost, in football you have to motivate yourself.

“But, in terms of the collective, I try to motivate the players, for every single game.

“But, you’ve got to be professional, that’s what you’re paid to be,” said Gerrard, speaking to Birmingham Mail.