Aston Villa teen Kosta Nedeljkovic hailed by Italian journalist after Nations League clash
Aston Villa full-back Kosta Nedeljkovic impressed on his Serbia debut and has received praise from Italian journalist Marco Palma.
The 18-year-old was said to be “mature” in both matches for his national team at the Nations League, in which he played 158 minutes, securing a clean sheet against European champions Spain.
Nedeljkovic became the 1000th Villa player when he was signed in January 2024, joining up with the first team this summer, and has already caught the eye.
Palma said, as quoted by Tutto Mercato Web: “The pin of the Serbian Under 21s, has just been called up for the first time in the national team, and has played as a starter in both games, resulting as one of the best (players).
“(He is) disciplined and very mature in spite of a young age.”
Is Nedeljkovic the perfect Matty Cash replacement?
Cash has had a tough start to the new season, picking up an injury against Arsenal, and is set to miss the next two weeks with a hamstring injury.
With that in mind, the Villa boss will be eager to start Nedeljkovic after a solid display against Spain, especially given the knock that Ezri Konsa picked up for England.
The Serbian is a raw talent, and although he is only a teenager, Emery could be swayed by Nedeljkovic’s youthful desire.
He ranked as one of the top performers in the match against the Gunners, according to FotMob, and may benefit from playing against a team in poor form such as Everton to help boost his confidence.
Ideally, the Villa manager would like to start a seasoned Premier League player at right-back, though injuries to his squad could mean he has to rely on an 18-year-old future star.
In other Aston Villa news, the club have defended their Champions League ticket price decision.
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