Leon Bailey believes a win against Chelsea on Sunday can kickstart Aston Villa’s season.
The 25-year-old missed Monday’s draw against Nottingham Forest with a minor muscle injury and is hopeful of returning to the fold when the Blues visit Villa Park this weekend.
Villa are on a four-match unbeaten run in the Premier League, but Bailey says they need a statement victory to help move the team up the table.
He said: “It would be the start for us. It would kick off the season for us, to get that victory [against Chelsea].
“Everybody would be in a better place and that would boost everybody’s confidence to go on and win more games.”
“It’s tough right now because we haven’t lost in four games, but it doesn’t feel [like that]. Once we turn that over, starting on Sunday, things can get better,” Bailey added.
“The momentum of the team has to increase for individuals to really show their quality.
“We’re in a good place and I don’t think that people need to think we’re not in a good place. We’re in a good place, we just need to top up a bit more to get the results that we need.”
The Jamaican had played a part in every match this season before missing out against Forest, with the nine-game stretch his longest run of consecutive appearances for Villa since he joined in August 2021.
Bailey says he’s in a good place heading into Sunday’s tilt against Chelsea as he looks to help produce goals and assists for the team.
He said: “I wouldn’t say people have seen the best of me because I haven’t seen the best of me.
“I know what I’m capable of and I know what I can do, but everything takes time. I’m getting there and I’m happy with where I’m at right now.
“I’m pushing to be the best version of myself and be who I know I can be and reach the level I know I can bring out.
“It’s difficult and sometimes you have to adapt, be patient and focus on bettering yourself. That’s what I’m doing.”
