Ross Barkley makes 'massive' Aston Villa prediction and sets sights on silverware after transfer

Ross Barkley has set his sights on silverware after returning to Aston Villa in a deal worth £5m from Luton Town.

The 30-year-old rediscovered his form at Kenilworth Road last season, making 32 Premier League appearances for Luton last term, scoring five goals and recording four assists. But after Luton's relegation back to the Championship, Barkley's spell at the club was cut to only one season because he wants to continue playing Premier League football following his renaissance under Rob Edwards.

“For me, and everyone else at the club and the fans, [the ambition] is to win a trophy,” he said of his targets at Villa. “The club came so close last season and were unfortunate. With additions to the already great squad that we’ve got it’s going to be pivotal for the season. Hopefully we can win a trophy.”

R EAD | Samuel Iling-Junior makes Villa promise after joining from Juventus

READ | Women’s Football News July Issue On Sale Now

Barkley added: “Over the last few years the club has made huge strides since I was last at the club. As an outsider looking in, it looked fantastic, and to be a part of that is fantastic for me.

“Playing in the Champions League is a big incentive for me and the club, so I’m looking forward to that.”

Barkley spent the 2020/21 season on loan at Villa, so he will know several members of Unai Emery's squad, including the likes of John McGinn and Ezri Konsa.

“I know plenty of staff and I know plenty of the players as well,” he added. “I’m really close to John McGinn and I speak to him often, Ezri as well. I’m looking forward to getting back in.

“I’m in a week early now and staying on top of things. I’m looking forward to meeting everybody when they return.

“The last time I came, I didn’t play in front of the fans, so I’m looking forward to that. The atmosphere [at Villa Park] is great, so I’m looking forward to that as well as the Champions League nights. It’s been a long time since the club were in the Champions League, so it’s going to be a massive season.”

What do you make of Barkley's arrival? Tell us here

Click here to join our Aston Villa WhatsApp Community to receive the latest news and transfer headlines.