McGinn’s Novel Approach To Praising Villa’s Two Debutants

There were quite a few positives to come from Aston Villa’s midweek victory over Tottenham Hotspur in our penultimate Premier League clash of the 2020/21 campaign.

Never change @jmcginn7 pic.twitter.com/VMC8zRo8x5

— The Villa Talks Podcast (@VillaPodcast) May 19, 2021

We won obviously. It was a far more organised defensive showing again (even when Spurs had their late rally) and we saw solid performances from Marvelous Nakamba and John McGinn which gives everyone a boost going into next year. Finishing 11th is very acceptable progress even though 2021 has been frustrating.

Another big positive was finally seeing uber hyped young Academy duo Carney Chukwuemeka and Jaden Philogene-Bidace make their professional debuts – albeit cameo debuts at the death.

They both came on when we were under the cosh (although arguably should’ve made life comfortable for ourselves given the chances we had in the second period), so not only credit to head coach Dean Smith for being brave and rolling the dice, but credit to each of the young chaps, as they came on, didn’t look out of place, Chucky was unlucky not to score and both played their part in turning the midfield battle back in our favour. Yes, both made inexperienced errors that they will learn from, but their talent, fearlessness and no doubt internal pride and desire to make the most of their minutes, counted and fans saw the impact they had.

Imagine. 😩 pic.twitter.com/14cHSyMo6W

— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) May 20, 2021

They aren’t the only two talents we have huge hopes for in the Academy, but for the first time in a long time, the future again looks bright and whilst they will undoubtedly have up and down moments as they continue to develop, and without waxing too lyrical as they have a long way to go, both show that youthful arrogance and confidence that reminds plenty of a certain Jack Grealish as he came through the ranks.

The future holds what the future holds – but for now, as we head into next season, the only real question is do they join Jacob Ramsey in getting 12 months out for real experience, or are they in the first team mix and guaranteed Cup starters along with being bench options?