Martyn Waghorn was the star performer for Ipswich this season.

The 28-year-old joined the club from Rangers last summer and settled back into English football quickly with four goals in his first three league games. Him and Joe Garner moved together from the Scottish side, so they had a strong understanding from the time together there which allowed them to start strongly.

Garner picked up an injury near the end of the season which ruled him out for a while. However, Waghorn carried on his form and showed that he isn't dependent on his understanding with Garner. His goals helped the club finish in 12th place, but it wasn't enough to reward Mick McCarthy with a contract extension.

Waghorn's output was outstanding considering it was his first season back in the Championship because he scored 16 goals and assisted 11 in 44 games. Therefore, he was close to contributing to 50% of Ipswich's league goals last season. His role in the team's attacking was pivotal because of the sheer number of his direct contributions.

Unsurprisingly, his in-game numbers reflect that central role because he averaged 2.4 shots per game, which is a high shot volume. However, he was also involved creatively because he averaged 1.5 key passes as well as 1.2 crosses. This means his movement was varied because he obviously worked the channels due to being the one crossing. Therefore, he is capable of working well with another striker by assuming creativity responsibility.

His key passes per game show that he is able to unlock a defence through precise passes in the final third which is useful in any scenario whether that be against a deep block or an unorganised defence caught on the counter.

Villa could utilise a striker who can take a central role in their attacking by being in the right areas to convert chances, creating their own openings as well as playing others in. Waghorn would be the ideal striker for that task especially as they rebuild after the Play-Off Final disappointment.

Thoughts, Villa fans? Let us know below!