Aston Villa confirmed earlier in the week that Yannick Bolasie’s loan spell had been cut short, with the winger heading back to Goodison Park to link up with Everton.  

The 29-year-old had a limited impact at Villa Park, scoring two goals and registering four assists in 21 appearances.

Taking on our own six pointer is FLW writer Alfie Burns, answering six questions around the recent transfer news coming out of Villa Park.

1) First of all, what do you make of Bolasie’s sudden departure?

“It came as a surprise to me.

“He looked like he’d worked his way into Dean Smith’s plans and was beginning to put a run of appearances together, which was needed after his injury problems.”

2) What did you think to his short stint at Villa Park? Did he have the impact you thought he would?

“Not really, I expected a lot more from him.

“We obviously saw some incredible pieces of skill, but his productivity from out wide wasn’t good enough for a side like Villa.

“He was a bit underwhelming.”

3) Who in the current squad needs to step up now Bolasie has gone?

“Albert Adomah and Anwar El Ghazi are the two that many will expect to step up.

“However, I think the door is open for Andre Green now.

“Smith should be looking to develop his talent and give him a regular run of games.”

4) Do you think we will see Dean Smith dip into the transfer market to replace the outgoing player?  

“It’s tough to say, as in Adomah, El Ghazi and Green, you do have some very good options.

“In addition to that, Jonathan Kodjia can play wide and Jack Grealish could even shift out there if needed.

“If the right player becomes available I’d expect Smith to move, but he won’t sign someone just for the sake of it.” 

5) If so, what type of player should Smith be targeting to replace him?

“For me, Villa’s current wide options are all very similar, so someone with a little bit more craft should be on the radar.

“Obviously he’s not a realistic target, but a player in the mould of Pablo Hernandez would be ideal for Villa.

“That kind of nous in the final third would take pressure off Grealish and help Tammy Abraham score even more goals.”

6) Finally, does Villa’s task of breaking into the play-offs become more difficult without Bolasie?

“Of course it’s more difficult now.

“Whilst Bolasie didn’t have the impact many expected, he was still a player that could make a difference and on his day, he was amongst the best in the Championship.”