Sheffield United manager, Paul Heckingbottom, has admitted that there is potential in reports which have claimed Robin Olsen could be sent back to Roma and then re-loaned back to Aston Villa this January.
A report yesterday, which stemmed from Talksport’s Alex Crook, suggested that Olsen was on the radar of new Aston Villa boss Steven Gerrard. The former Rangers manager is said to want an experienced number two to compete with Emiliano Martinez.
Robin Olsen To Aston Villa?
As we know, Olsen, is currently on loan with United from Italian giants, Roma. However, he has flattered to deceive in Sheffield and has lost his place as number one to Wes Foderingham. And speaking ahead of this weekend’s clash with Derby County, Heckingbottom admitted there could be legs in the reports.
“There is potential on that and a situation we are monitoring but as it stands now nothing happening,” Heckingbottom told the local press. (Yorkshire Live)
SAKA, ANTONY AND 10 PREMIER LEAGUE STARS HEADING TO THEIR FIRST WORLD CUP
However, Heckingbottom stopped short of saying a move will definitely happen. Indeed, he suggested the Blades would need a new ‘keeper in the building alongside Jake Eastwood and Wes Foderingham if Olsen is to go.
“Yeah as it stands (Foderingham and Olsen being one and two). And with Robin the loan is in our hands the only way he can go is if we have a replacement“
The Blades allowed Michael Verrips to leave this week. The Dutch stopper moving to Fortuna Sittard with the option of a permanent switch in the summer.
Our View: Olsen Can Go But Heckingbottom Is Right About Replacement
While we are all happy enough Foderingham as number one, there is a big risk in leaving just Jake Eastwood as any sort of back-up option. Eastwood is 25 now, but has played just a handful of career games.
Jordan Amissah is at the club and doing well, while Marcus Dewhurst is another young ‘keeper with prospects. But the Blades will need an experienced head in, if Olsen goes.
It’s worth looking into though. Olsen is thought to be on big wages. The chance to wheel and deal, then, is one the club may well push to make happen.
