Aston Villa made their first signing of the January transfer window and it was former Norwich striker, Grant Holt, 32. There have been mixed opinions in regards to this signing, usually I’m on the positive side, supporting Lambert and his signings. But this time, I reckon he’s crossed the line. Holt was brought in to cover Kozak, who has been ruled out for the remainder of the season. The fact is, Holt offers nothing different to what Villa already have. He doesn’t offer a new dimension nor will be able to change the style of play off the bench. He is really slow, sluggish, strong, tall and that’s about it. What we have essential done is re-sign Emile Heskey from Wigan.
What bothers me the most is that Lambert had already signed a good striker in the summer, Niklas Helenius. The Dane is yet to start a League game but has already halved Holt’s goal tally for the season! That single goal against Sheffield United is half of what Holt has achieved in over 12 games. Plus, in my honest opinion, I reckon, as a player Helenius offers much more than Holt. Helenius has technical ability, good vision, tall, strong and can score a goal. The arrival of Holt has just dropped Helenius lower in the pecking order. I’ll admit, Holt is experienced, however I still think it would benefit Aston Villa in the long-run if we gave Helenius a chance.
Aston Villa haven’t scored many goals this season so it’s fair to say why Lambert wanted to sign a new striker on loan. But the problem lies elsewhere. Aston Villa have no left-winger nor attacking midfielder. These are the two positions that I want Lambert to focus on. What’s the point of having several forwards if we have no players to create. There isn’t much service for these forwards. If Lambert can bring in a much more needed player, then the signing of Holt won’t be looking as bad.
Overall, I do wish Holt well though, if he can score a goal or two that would be considered a success. Our last loan signing during January was Robbie Keane and he was a huge success. Keane scored 3 goals and provided 1 assist in 7 appearances. I doubt that Holt will be able to make such an impact but hopefully the least he could do is give the younger players some advice and be an example, that’s what experience is for right?