The Senegalese defensive midfielder signed to Aston Villa in July 2015 for a fee of £9m. The 25-year-old played for Lille’s B team from 2008 to 2010, before switching to the senior team where he played until his move to the English Premier League. He also won the Ligue 1 title with the club in 2011.
Gueye was seen as a good replacement for Fabian Delph who moved to Manchester City this summer. Manager Tim Sherwood has backed the African to succeed at the club. ‘What Idrissa gives you is hundred per cent every time he plays. He is wholehearted, he suits the Premier League and he loves the pace of the game.
‘He is very aggressive; he gets at people, wants to tackle and wants to get on the football. He is brave in and out of possession – and that’s something you want to see. We are really pleased with him. He has been outstanding.’
And this seems to be proving true despite Aston Villa’s poor form. Gueye has been more impressive than Delph last season in defence, averaging four tackles and 3.6 interceptions per game. And for both categories, he’s up there with the top five Premier League players.
