It’s over three years since Aston Villa said goodbye to Jack Grealish, but they might have finally found a replacement.
Leon Bailey was among the signings that cushioned the blow following Grealish’s British transfer record move to Manchester City in 2021.
Although the Jamaica international’s form was not exactly prolific, he has exploded into life for Unai Emery’s side in the past 13 months.
Bailey racked up his 11th assist since the start of last season as Ollie Watkins completed the Villans’ first-half comeback at Ipswich Town.
In total, the former Bayer Leverkusen winger has produced 20 goal involvements since the beginning of 2023/24.
A combined tally of 16 top-flight assists across his three years at Villa Park also equalled Grealish’s own haul in four full campaigns with his boyhood club.
How many more will he rack up before all is said and done next May?