Patrick van Aanholt is off once again. Vitesse announced today that the 21-year-old fullback will be joining the Dutch club on loan for the remainder of the season.
In need of games
This is pretty good news. While the Eredivisie is a clear step down in competition from the Premier League, van Aanholt should have a chance to receive significant minutes after an egregious loan spell during the first half of the season. Regular playing time is a must for the kid, as he attempts to work his way into the first-team conversation at Chelsea.
Van Aanholt spent the first half of this season at Wigan, where he struggled to make any sort of impact. He made just four appearances for Roberto Martinez, three in the Premier League and one in the Carling Cup. He spent the better part of three months out of the first team (Oct. 1) before the two clubs agreed to cancel the loan agreement. It really was a bizarre situation considering Maynor Figueroa is Wigan's only viable left fullback in my estimation. To each is his own I guess.
Van Aanholt moves on, into a much better setting. He's heading back to his homeland, which is always a positive for a younger player. Vitesse, meanwhile, are currently sixth in the Eredivisie, pushing for European qualification. Aiding in that drive could do wonders not only for PvA's game but also his confidence. All in all, I think this is going to work out well for all parties involved. Let's hope so.
Tear it up, Patrick.