Rory Wilson shares instant reaction as Aston Villa exit now confirmed
Rory Wilson has long been linked with a departure from Aston Villa.
The 19-year-old was at the centre of controversy earlier in the year as his contract looked set to tick down at Villa Park after being left out of training.
After picking up an injury, it appeared that the road map back to full fitness was being scuppered by staff at Bodymoor Heath, before apologies were eventually made.
This eventually saw the Scotland youth international pen a new deal, with him now taking to social media to react to a departure from B6.
Wilson reacts as Aston Villa exit confirmed
There has been plenty of discourse surrounding the forward, especially considering how much potential he possesses as a goal scorer.
It is fair to say that questions have been raised, given that Unai Emery is reluctant to hand him any first-team minutes at 19.
With that being said, Monchi worked to keep hold of Wilson, which showcases how highly regarded he is among staff at Bodymoor Heath.
This could see some senior minutes be in the pipeline next campaign, with a loan elsewhere potentially on the cards.
As things stand, the Scot is sticking around, but the same can’t be said about academy teammate Todd Alcock, who has confirmed his departure via Instagram (30 July).
The defensive midfielder has now moved on from B6 after 14 years, as his contract was allowed to run out as this season came to an end.
This saw the 20-year-old pen an emotional message, with Wilson liking the post while other Bodymoor youngsters Sil Swinkels, Jamaldeen Jimoh-Aloba and Ben Broggio sharing heartfelt comments.
Alcock confirms Aston Villa contract expiry exit
As positive as the success under Emery has been, it has come at a cost in terms of progression from the academy to the first team.
With European football a regular fixture at Villa Park, with the hope of finishing within the top four being the main aim, there is little to no room for error.
As a result, the Spanish head coach has few opportunities to blood young talent like Alcock into the side, regardless of their talent.
In the past 12 months, only Lamare Bogarde has managed to make that step up, with chances being few and far between for anyone else in the youth squads.
| Stat (Premier League 24/25) | Lamare Bogarde |
| Appearances | 8 |
| Successful passes | 223 |
| Tackles won | 6 |
| Duels won | 33 |
It is a shame to see these talented youngsters leave, but there is no doubt that everyone associated with the claret and blue outfit will wish Alcock well elsewhere.
Sign up for the Villa News WhatsApp channel and turn on notifications to have all the latest, breaking Aston Villa news sent straight to your phone.