Aston Villa new boy given England target as Birmingham City confirm Turkey deal

Aston Villa new boy Ross Barkley has give himself the best chance of breaking back into the England setup by returning to the Premier League with Unai Emery’s side.

That was the verdict of Luton Town manager Rob Edwards as he paid tribute to the midfielder for the impact he had made during his one-year stay at Kenilworth Road. There was some surprise when the Hatters made a move to sign the former Everton and Chelsea star last summer after he left French club Lille. However, any doubts over Barkley’s suitability to thrive in the Premier League once again were cast aside as he scored five goals and provided six assists during what proved to be an unsuccessful battle against relegation from the top tier.

The 33-times capped England international has not made a Three Lions appearance since scoring twice in a Euro 2020 qualifying win in Bulgaria in October 2019 - but Edwards believes he can force his way back into the squad after he agreed to return to Villa Park for the first time since he spent time on loan with Villa during the 2020/21 season.

Speaking after Barkley’s departure was confirmed, Hatters boss Edwards told the club website: “We are disappointed to see Ross go, but we completely understand it and he leaves with our best wishes and thanks. It was great to work with him for a season. He was amazing, provided lots of good memories for us all and the supporters fell in love with him, but I’m sure everyone will understand the opportunity. Playing in the Premier League is important for Ross, as is Champions League football. He still wants to play for England and believes this gives him the best chance to do so.

“We’ve had a good chat and Ross has thanked me and the club. We are parting on good terms and you never know what the future holds, I’ve got to say that. He loves all of the supporters and he wants to come back to watch a game. He actually said, ‘I want to come back for the Watford derby!’. So let’s give him a great reception when he does come back during the season. He’ll always be welcome.”

Blues confirm Pritchard departure

Alex Pritchard’s underwhelming four-month stay had Birmingham City has come to an end after the former Huddersfield Town and Norwich City star joined Turkish club Sivasspor.

The attacking midfielder joined the Blues in February but made just nine appearances as his new side fought an unsuccessful battle against relegation from the Championship. After failing to make a start in the Blues’ final nine games of a disappointing campaign, speculation over Pritchard’s future at St Andrews has ramped up in recent weeks and he will now look to revitalise his career in Turkey as he links up with a Sivasspor side that won the Turkish Cup just two years ago.

A statement released on the Blues website said: “Blues can confirm the departure of Alex Pritchard. The 32-year-old, who arrived at St. Andrew's @ Knighthead Park during the second-half of the 2023/24 season, has joined Super Lig side Sivasspor for an undisclosed fee. After joining from Sunderland, he made nine appearances for Birmingham City, recording one assist. He now links up with the 2022 Turkish Cup winners, who finished seventh in the top flight last term.”