Aston Villa forward Gabriel Agbonlahor finding bench role frustrating

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Aston Villa forward Gabriel Agbonlahor is frustrated at the lack of starting opportunities lately, with the striker often being forced to play out of position on the right wing when he does play.

The arrival of Darren Bent has no doubt contributed to Agbonlahor’s lack of starts since January, the former Sunderland striker’s signing having greatly increased the competition for places in Villa’s attacking third.

The change in tactics to a 4-4-1-1 formation would be another reason for the Villa youth product’s lack of starts with Gerard Houllier often choosing to play Ashley Young in the hole behind lone-striker Darren Bent, and then opting for Marc Albrighton on the right wing, with Stewart Downing occupying the left flank.

However, despite not starting either of Villa’s last two games, the England international has said that now isn’t the time for complaining.

Speaking to The Birmingham Mail, Agbonlahor said: “It has been frustrating as, since I’ve been in the first team, I’ve not really missed many games.

“It is disappointing to be on the bench but it isn’t the time for people to moan. It is about getting the results we need.

“I’m not sure what the manager is going to do against Wolves because he doesn’t name the team until just before the game.

“Whatever side goes out there will be up for it and hopefully we can get the points.”