25 Aug 2021 12:10:12
Everything that is said about the villa youngsters is absolutely bang on, footballers that are so comfortable on the ball and receiving the ball in tight areas. I watched all the players closely and some of senior players didn't look as comfortable on the ball as the younger players. It's been said many times on here, if they are good enough they are old enough, my concern is managers are often reluctant to be adventurous with blooding the kids too early, often hiding behind the fact they don't want to destroy their confidence too early, what i see is the opposite hungry skilful players that won't be fazed on the big stage. Throw them in the deep end Deano, save the club a fortune and reap the rewards, you will soon tell if they are ready. 15 minute cameos show nothing, give them a couple of starts.

1.) 25 Aug 2021
25 Aug 2021 13:30:53
I do see where you're coming from there, but it's all very well fans thinking they're good enough and wanting them to be thrown in, but most of us aren't qualified coaches and don't see them day in, day out. I don't think Smith is stupid enough to have a 19 Yr old who's clearly better than his senior counterpart and not play him, as proven with Ramsey starting against Newcastle. Like most, I'm excited about the potential of some of these guys, but it's a gamble at best to think they should be replacing Ings, Buendia, McGinn, Watkins etc. I for one think Smith is going about it sensibly, using a mix of loans and gradual integration and then rewarding good performances with starts in the case of Ramsey. and hopefully one or two others as the season progresses.
If he were to give 4/ 5 19 year old a run of 5/ 10 games, we drop more points than we gain and finish 12th, the whole 'Smith has underachieved, get a new guy in' debate resurfaces.
Not saying you would mate, but we all know every point counts and the Smith out brigade from last season won't need much encouragement.

2.) 25 Aug 2021
25 Aug 2021 13:56:48
100% agree DBS, we will see Chukwumeka and Philogene-Bidace get minutes this season but we have to trust the club and the plan that is in place for our academy players. We a producing some very talented young lads, let's trust that the club has a plan in place to manage their development and provide a path to the first team. Not all will succeed but the likes of Barry, Chukwumeka, Philogene-Bidace, Kessler and Aaron Ramsey look look like future first teamers if managed correctly. Exciting times!