Aston Villa must simply keep hold of their 34-year-old veteran as he’d play an important role in promotion push – agreed?

Why Aston Villa should keep hold of Mile Jedinak amidst A-League interest

According to a report in Aussie outlet the Age, Australian veteran Mile Jedinak could leave Aston Villa to play in the A-League next season. Football Federation of Australia have decided to expand their league and are hoping to sign the former Socceroos captain as a marquee player.

As per the report, Macarthur-South West Sydney have entered negotiations with the 34-year-old to make him their inaugural captain should they be admitted into the league. December 12 is the D-Day for the club when the FFA will decide whether or not they will be included in the competition.

Though their fate is still in the process, the bidding team have initiated talks with Jedinak over a possible move (h/t The Age). However, Aston Villa should have a say in it and not allow the midfielder to leave. Here’s why:

Jedinak’s experience is key to Villa

Mile Jedinak is one of those experienced figures every team should have, especially when they are under new management and are seeking to get promotion to the top-flight division this season.

He is a versatile player who can operate in the midfield and in central defence as per the requirement of the team.

And with Tommy Elphick loaned out to Hull City, Villa manager Dean Smith has only two first-choice centre-backs in his squad – Axel Tuanzebe and James Chester. The former is on loan from Manchester United.

Hence, it is imperative from the Birmingham-based club’s viewpoint that they keep hold of their veteran player, firstly as a backup for the centre-backs and secondly, as an asset in the team in a season where promotion push is still on the cards.

From the 34-year-old’s point of view, it would be enticing when a club from his native country is tabling an offer to play in the top-flight league. But the prize of helping Aston Villa to the Premier League promotion would be massive.

Jedinak’s contract will run out at the end of this season, and the English side should do everything to keep the Aussie beyond next summer. Offering a new deal would be a viable solution.

Read More: Here are 2 players Aston Villa can loan out in the January window including this out of favour midfielder

Dean Smith has revitalised the mojo at the club as they were going nowhere under Steve Bruce. However, under the ex-Brentford gaffer, the belief is back that top-flight football could soon be within touching distance. Jedinak mustn’t miss this chance.