Aston Villa 2016-17 player preview: Leandro Bacuna

Leandro Bacuna wants to be playing Champions League football this season, but instead, his challenge will be far greater: trying to win round the Villa Park faithful.

During a season in which Aston Villa were awful, Bacuna came under more criticism than most, and unlike Micah Richards and Brad Guzan, his crimes took place off the pitch. Though he looked indifferent at times, his performances weren't nearly as bad as that now infamous quote that he made to Dutch TV.

That was last season though, and now Bacuna has the chance to start afresh. A versatile player, the Curaçao international can play anywhere down the right, and he has most recently played at right back for the Claret and Blues. Unless Villa sign another RB this summer, expect Bacuna to feature prominently this season.

It's almost a shame that Bacuna has been deployed so defensively in recent times, as he is actually quite a creative player. His relationship with former striker Christian Benteke was productive, and given the chance, he could supply the assists for Villa this season.

Leandro Bacuna has potential, so maybe he deserves a second chance.