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Aston Villa's Leandro Bacuna was hauled in by Remi Garde to discuss his form in the wake of the Liverpool embarrassment.

Garde also had other concerns about Bacuna's recent contribution, but declined to go into detail publicly about what they were.

Bacuna's performances of late have caused fans to question the former Groningen utility man's attitude.

Garde appears to share those concerns and suggested Bacuna's versatility is no excuse for his inconsistency.

Asked for his thoughts about the Dutch utility man's form, Garde replied: "It’s not only about his form.

"I had a chat with Leandro – a private one of course – and I told him I expect a lot more consistency in his performances because he has some skills and can play good football in different positions on the field.

"Sometimes that is an asset, sometimes it’s a problem because you have no landmark on what you have to do week after week.

"But this is not an excuse and I expect a lot more consistency and sometimes better performances from Leo."

Garde did not call in all of his players for individual talks after the 6-0 drubbing, although he does like to have one-to-one conversations with them.

“I have not taken them all aside for one-to-one talks," he said. "But week after weeks there are very few players I have not see one-on-one. Maybe none."

Mat Kendrick on the pre Stoke press conference