Diaby returned to the bench for Villa’s demolition job against Sheffield United. It was telling that his introduction, for Bailey, came on the hour mark and earlier than anticipated.

Aston Villa’s record signing Moussa Diaby is set to join Al Ittihad in a deal worth around €60million (£50.6m; $65.3m). The 25-year-old has agreed personal terms and a long-term contract with ...