Alan Hutton happy as new Ashley Young contract confirmed by Aston Villa

We’re delighted to welcome former Scotland defender Alan Hutton as our exclusive columnist as each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at Aston Villa...

Alan Hutton was left delighted with Aston Villa confirming a new contract for Ashley Young this week.

The ex-Villa defender insisted that it is great to have experienced players in the squad, with his influence set to go much further than just what he does on the pitch.

Hutton shared that he will pass on his knowledge throughout the club and Steven Gerrard will be wary of that as he looks to build something special at Villa Park.

"I'm always backing the corner of the experienced players," he exclusively told Villa News.

"I think when you are building something, going through that process, you have to have the experience round about, whether it's keeping the youngsters straight and narrow, keeping them around the training ground.

"He will play his part, he won't play week in, week out, but he's been the captain of Manchester United for a reason because he's a professional, he will want to pass that knowledge down so I think it's a good solid signing."

Critical.

This is one of those deals that no doubt goes under the radar, but could easily have the biggest effect on the squad going into the new season.

Of course, permanent signings of Philippe Coutinho, Diego Carlos and Boubacar Kamara bring more attention, but Gerrard has been around long enough to know what else matters.

Young will be cover for numerous positions including Lucas Digne at left-back, as well as for midfield and out wide in the final third if so desperately needed.

Gerrard is no fool and he will know that letting someone like Young go in a summer where a transitioning period is happening, with be the wrong move.

Hutton, just like the fans, is delighted.

In other Aston Villa news, Leon Bailey has sent a message of defiance to his doubters.