Aston Villa: Gabby’s new ‘pecs’ cause a stir

Sep 17 2009 by Lisa Smith, Birmingham Mail

“He can add something to his game, he’s working so hard so hopefully he can keep going.

‘‘In the Premier League defenders are as strong as anything and to compete with them you need to be just as strong. He knew what he needed and that’s what he worked on.’’

Petrov admits Agbonlahor’s fitness is reward for all his hard work.

“People forget that Gabby came back for pre-season just a week before we started the season so he has had to battling and work hard to get fit,” he added.

“As he gets even fitter he’ll get even better. We and the fans know how important he is for the team.

‘‘We know with the pace, the goals and the determination he’s got that he is very important for us.”

Manager Martin O Neill is equally proud of the work his young striker has done to bulk up over the summer but admits he doesn’t want him to get too big in case it affects his pace.

He believes the Birmingham-born star has the perfect balance of strength, speed and agility.

“Gabby took his goal brilliantly last week,” said O’Neill.

“He has been excellent in training, really strong and powerful and can be dangerous on either flank.

“All of that is coming on and of course has helped his confidence.

“He felt as if he needed to get a bit stronger but I am not convinced he needs much more strength. He is particularly strong now – I am not sure he needs much more.

“Sometimes when you strengthen up there you maybe lose a yard of pace. I am sure though that isn’t the case with Gabby.”