Shropshire Star

Kaine Kesler aims to catch the eye at Aston Villa

Teenage ace Kaine Kesler has expressed his desire to force his way into Villa’s first-team plans.

Published

Kesler has been training with the club’s senior players and will be involved when Dean Smith’s team begin their pre-season schedule at Walsall tonight.

The 18-year-old right-back, part of last season’s FA Youth Cup-winning squad, signed a five-year professional contract earlier in the summer and is considered among the club’s brightest young prospects.

But he knows his short-term future will be decided over what happens in the next few weeks.

Kesler said: “Depending on how this pre-season goes will determine how my season is, whether it is a loan or being involved in the first-team, it is up to the gaffer really.

“It is going to be a big pre-season, trying to impress him. That is the most important thing. That is what I want to do. Winning the Youth Cup was a proud moment. Now it is about looking on and trying to do what I need to become a better player.

“I’ve been told to just impress. First and foremost you have to get your fitness back but I can also show my ability and what I can provide for the team.”