Aston Villa’s Ashley Young hits back at ‘diver’ claims: It hurts me more than being booted up in the air

Ashley Young, Aston Villa (Getty Images)

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Aston Villa‘s Ashley Young has hit back at critics who claim he dives.

The 25-year-old, who has been heavily linked with a summer exit, claims that the suggestion that he cheats is more hurtful than being on the receiving end of a rough challenge.

He told reporters: “People saying I go down too easily hurts more than being booted up in the air, to be honest.

“I hear that on numerous occasions and then you look at the stats of me being the most fouled player.

“Is it me that’s going down easily or is it that I am genuinely being fouled?

“Referees are now booking players for simulation so, if players are diving, then they’re going to be booked.

“I’ve not been booked for diving but I’m the most fouled player.”

The former Watford winger is statistically the most fouled player in the Premier League, having been tripped 95 times, giving credence to his claims.

“Everyone’s entitled to their opinion,” he said. “It’s always going to be said that people are diving in the Premier League but you just have to get on with it.”

He continued: “I’ve got cuts, bumps, bruises, everything up and down my shins, but I’ve come to get used to it.

“Touch wood, I’ve not had many injuries this season and throughout my career I’ve not had major injuries.”

Aston Villa play Liverpool in their last game of the season and are looking to secure a top half finish.