He also spoke about standout performers and the overall level of English football this season.
On Aston Villa’s performances this season
As a former Aston Villa player, what do you think about the team’s performances and results this season?
The season didn’t start well, and it looked like it was going to be a tough one. But once they got players back fit, things improved a lot, and overall it’s been a good season up to now.
What do you think about the work Unai Emery is doing, and do you see him continuing his project at Villa?
Unai has done an unbelievable job. I hope he stays and keeps building because what he’s done so far has been excellent. That said, there are always big clubs looking for top managers with bigger budgets, so it will be interesting to see what happens.
As a former defender, how do you assess the performances of players like Tyrone Mings, Victor Lindelöf, Ezri Konsa and Pau Torres?
They’ve all done well. Konsa and Pau Torres have probably been the main two this season, but the others have also contributed when called upon. You need a strong squad nowadays and Villa have that.
What do you make of Douglas Luiz’s return and the performances of Tielemans, McGinn and Onana?
Luiz was really needed, especially with injuries in midfield. Tielemans and McGinn have been among the best players this season, so having them fit again is a big boost.
Morgan Rogers has been one of Villa’s standout players. What do you think about his performances and transfer links?
He’s had a great season, played in different positions and scored important goals. Players like him will always attract interest because they can change games.
On Middlesbrough and the promotion race
As a former Middlesbrough player, what do you think about their performances and promotion chances?
It’s great to see Boro fighting to get back into the Premier League. They’re still near the top and there are big games coming up, so it’s going to be an exciting end to the season.
What do you think about Hayden Hackney and the interest from top clubs?
He’s a local lad and has done really well. If Boro get promoted, I’m sure he’ll stay. If not, then there will definitely be big clubs looking to take him.
What differences do you see between Middlesbrough under Kim Hellberg and the previous coach?
Kim has come in and done well, but he also inherited a strong squad that started the season positively. He’s a more attacking coach, always looking to score the next goal, while the previous approach was a bit more cautious.
If Middlesbrough are promoted, should the club continue with Hellberg?
Yes, definitely. If they go up, they should keep hold of him.
What do you think about former Boro manager Michael Carrick’s work at Manchester United?
He’s done a great job. They’re winning games and playing good football. I’m not sure what will happen with the managerial situation, but if he gets them into the top four, that would be a big achievement.
On the Premier League and Championship seasons
What has impressed you most about the Premier League this season?
I think it’s been a really good season. The so-called smaller teams have done very well and are putting the bigger clubs under real pressure, which makes it more competitive.
What do you think about the Championship this season and Coventry City under Frank Lampard?
The Championship is always a difficult league to get out of because there are so many big clubs competing. Teams like Middlesbrough, Millwall and Ipswich are all pushing. Frank Lampard has done an unbelievable job at Coventry—winning a lot of games and scoring plenty of goals.