Lucas Digne: Aston Villa star posts impressive stats in France win, giving Unai Emery selection headache
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Credit: Imago Mon 30 March 2026 14:00, UK Lucas Digne impressed away from Aston Villa on Sunday as France beat Colombia 3-1 in the United States.The left-back has found his position under threat in Unai Emery’s team of late, with Ian Maatsen starting against Chelsea and Lille in the Europa League last 16.The 32-year-old did return to the starting line-up against West Ham before the break, and he will hope to establish his place for the final games of the season. Villa’s form has left their position in the Premier League’s top four under doubt, although the win over West Ham has handed them a five-point buffer to Liverpool. ⚽ Aston Villa Matchday ⚽ Team news, line-ups, expert previews and tactical analysis for every Aston Villa fixture.
VISIT THE VILLA MATCH HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Lucas Digne impresses vs ColombiaFormer scout Mick Brown exclusively told Football Insider in February that Villa will consider selling Digne this summer, with Emery keen to upgrade in the position.The defender has made 172 appearances for the Villans since joining from Everton in 2022, but has drawn frustration at times this season.Lucas Dignevs ColombiaMinutes played90Accurate passes35/46Chances created1Successful dribbles1/2Clearances3Duels won3/6His performance for France on Sunday suggested that there is still much in the tank for the 32-year-old, however. Digne created a chance and two shots throughout the game, but it was his defensive work that caught the eye.The left-back made three clearances, two interceptions and four recoveries as France squeezed Colombia.Ironically, while the defender finds his position under threat at Villa Park, he will travel to the World Cup and could start for the two-time champions.Theo Hernandez is expected to be Digne’s biggest competition, but the 28-year-old must do much to impress while playing in the Saudi Pro League for Al-Hilal.Is Digne back to his best?Sunday’s performance was Digne’s second superb display in the space of a week.
The left-back was up and down the flank throughout the game, creating chances and coming up with key contributions.The 32-year-old won eight of his 10 duels and attracted huge acclaim for a brilliant performance in a vital game for the Villans.Emery may well be hoping to keep Digne fit by rotating him with Maatsen, but his performances over the past week have shown that he still has plenty left to give. 🦁 ASTON VILLA INSIDER UPDATE 🦁 Get the inside track on the Villa Park dugout, transfer strategy, player wages, and technical leadership at Bodymoor Heath. Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from Villa Park.