Butler expects Bailey to return to his peak

Jamaican winger Leon Bailey made his return to the English Premier League with Aston Villa in a 2-0 victory over Newcastle on Sunday, appearing settled according to his manager, Craig Butler. Butler expressed confidence that Bailey will rediscover his best form back in England following a challenging five-month loan spell at Italian club Roma, which was plagued by injuries.

Butler believes the time apart has fostered a renewed appreciation between Bailey and Aston Villa. He stated that the separation allowed the club to recognize Bailey's value as a player, while Bailey himself realized his affection for Villa. Butler emphasized that Bailey is now motivated to prove himself and aims to dominate on the pitch, with both parties committed to making the reunion successful.

Bailey's loan at AS Roma was disrupted by three separate injuries: a thigh issue in his first training session, a hamstring problem in November, and another muscle injury in December. Despite this, Butler disputes the notion that Bailey is particularly injury-prone, even though his injury record at Villa has also been inconsistent. He suggested that the training methods under Roma's coach, Gasperini, were not suited to Bailey, rather than the injuries themselves preventing his success.

Butler further argued that Bailey does not require specialized training to maintain fitness, comparing him to players like Arjen Robben, who also experienced injuries but overcame them. He highlighted that Bailey is now fully fit and ready to play, feeling rejuvenated upon returning to Aston Villa. Butler noted that Villa had faced injuries in Bailey's position during his absence and remembered his past contributions, including helping the club achieve its best finish in 40 years, qualify for the Champions League, and secure fourth place in the Premier League.

Despite receiving offers from clubs such as Ajax and Real Mallorca, Bailey chose to return to Aston Villa after discussions with the club, which actively sought his return. Butler concluded that Bailey is focused on reaffirming his place at Villa with top-level performances.

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