Philogene's return highlights his ambitions
Philogene returns to Aston Villa less than 12 months after being sold to Hull
- Published
Jaden Philogene is backing himself to make an impact at Aston Villa.
The England Under-21 international's five-year deal also signifies the confidence the club have in their returning academy graduate.
He was heading to Ipswich until Villa made their late move, triggering their option to match the Tractor Boys' 拢18m offer.
That Villa had the foresight to protect themselves and have matching rights - and a buy back option should Hull be promoted - shows how highly they rate the 22-year-old.
Philogene could have gone to Portman Road and been a regular starter for the newly promoted club but his ambition has taken him back to Villa Park less than 12 months after being sold.
The club considers his return an exciting opportunity and feel he will play a large role, given Philogene offers a different skillset to their other widemen.
Moussa Diaby's impending departure to Al-Ittihad immediately frees up a place but Philogene is confident enough to feel he would earn a place in Unai Emery's starting XI regardless of the competition.
The opportunity to play in the Champions League is also an obvious carrot but the World Cup in 2026 is a major ambition, one he feels is achievable.
England will have a new manager and, having broken into Lee Carsley's Under-21 squad - with Carsley linked with the top job after Gareth Southgate's departure this week - a senior call could be within reach next season.