Jay Dasilva makes his first return to Ashton Gate this weekend, safe in the knowledge that he has quickly established himself in Coventry City’s side since his summer switch from the South West.
The 25-year-old left-wing-back was Mark Robins’ first signing of the close season, joining the Sky Blues on July 1 after his contract with Bristol City expired. Dasilva made more than 140 appearances during a five-year spell with the Robins, scoring two goals after joining initially on loan in the 2018/19 campaign from Chels
Another player who has previously worked with highly decorated youth and development coach Adi Viveash at Stamford Bridge, Coventry finally got their man after going agonisingly close to securing his services in the January transfer window. In fact, a move was all agreed but depended on Dasilva’s boss Nigel Pearson getting in a replacement – something he was unable to achieve, resulting in the deal being put on hold.On arrival at the CBS Arena, the Coventry manager said: “We have monitored Jay for a while now and are delighted that, despite interest from elsewhere, he has decided to join Coventry City. He is a dynamic, attack-minded wing back with great technical ability who will add further quality and pace to our squad. We look forward to working with him.”
So far this term he’s started all 11 of City’s Championship games to establish himself as the club’s first choice left wing-back.
Position addressed
City had struggled to match the attacking verve down the left since Ian Maatsen’s departure at the end of the 2021/22 campaign left a significant void and upset the balance of the team. Although Jake Bidwell stepped up and proved a reliable and consistent performer on the left flank, he provided more defensive solidity than dynamism going forward. As such, Josh Wilson-Esbrand was drafted in last January in a bid to address the situation. However, the Manchester City loan player never really got going and struggled to get game time, with Bidwell continuing to be first pick in the position all the way to the play-off final at the end of the season.
But it’s all changed since Dasilva’s summer arrival, with the player starting the season and not looking back – now firmly established as Robins’ first choice left wing-back.
First impressions
Dasilva impressed from day one against Leicester City, defending well when called upon and providing an exciting outlet down the left wing. He’s quick on his feet, tenacious, clever and technically gifted, able to get out of the tightest spots on the pitch. He’s averaged 39 passes per match with a pass completion rate of 84.6%, and had one assist. With just two yellow cards to his name so far, he has shown excellent discipline.
Strengths
He’s been really consistent, offering a decent outlet going forward. Dasilva holds onto the ball very well, is an excellent passer of the ball and has a decent delivery from open play as well as corners and free-kicks.
