Smell the coffee: Aston Villa must upgrade on Matty Cash after poor performance vs PSG

Aston Villa lost the UEFA Super Cup final 2-1 to Paris Saint-Germain yesterday after a spirited performance.

The Villains held their own against the consensus best team in the world despite their many injury setbacks.

Several Villa players brought their A-game on the night, especially up top where young striker Brian Madjo made himself a nuisance.

George Hemmings, Ian Maatsen, Alysson, Joao Gomes, and John McGinn delivered superb performances as the Europa League champions looked to defy the odds.

Unfortunately, they were let down by teammates like Matty Cash, who had a catastrophically poor game.

Cash was guilty of many bad passes and lost possession of the ball 18 times. He was dribbled past once and also produced nothing of note in attack.

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia had him pegged back for most of the game, and the Polish international defender (25 caps) was consistently rushed into bad decisions.

Kvaratskhelia jinked past him to score the opener, and he managed to keep Desire Doue onside for their late winner.

The performance should serve as another reminder that Villa cannot afford to be complacent at right-back.

Cash has been an important player for the club and brings experience, energy and attacking intent.

Still, there are occasions when his technical limitations and decision-making fall below the standard expected at the highest level.

Villa have a competitive season ahead, with Premier League, Champions League and domestic commitments placing enormous demands on Unai Emery’s squad.

They need players who can be trusted to perform consistently against Europe’s elite, and Cash’s display against PSG highlighted the risk of relying too heavily on him.

Villa should therefore seriously consider upgrading the position before the transfer window closes.

A more reliable right-back, particularly one comfortable defending one-on-one situations and retaining possession under pressure, could make a significant difference.

Cash can still provide useful squad depth, but Villa need stronger competition for his place.

If the club can find the right opportunity, strengthening at right-back should be a priority.