Aston Villa rising star causes ‘buzz’ at Bodymoor Heath after arrival from Birmingham City
Aston Villa have got one up on local rivals Birmingham City once again.
The second city derby hasn’t been played for seven years, but there is no doubting the bitter divide between Villa and Birmingham.
Co-owner Tom Wagner has caused embarrassment at Birmingham from the outside looking in, but their recent success can’t be overlooked.
Alongside Tom Brady as Birmingham chief, who has also come under fire, there has been big-money spending to bring positivity back to St Andrew’s.
This has caused a stir in the Championship, and it looks as if some smart business has been conducted, although Villa look to have pulled a fast one on Blues.
Jack McGrath catches the eye after Birmingham City exit
Villa have a history in recent years of snatching the best talent from across the Midlands to add to their own academy.
Tim Iroegbunam joined from West Brom and became a first-team asset for multiple seasons before his FFP-based switch to Everton.
The defensive midfielder is just one example in a long line of starlets that have moved to the academy at Bodymoor Heath from a local rival.
Villa snatched a top talent from nearest rivals Birmingham in the shape of Jack McGrath, who has gone on to become a scholar in B6.
Famed for his free-kick taking exploits, the 2008-born ace was a key member of the treble-winning youth side last campaign after many years in lower age groups.
McGrath has been picked up on by The Guardian as Villa’s best youngster born between 1 September 2008 and 31 August 2009.
Journalist Ben Fischer wrote in glowing terms about talent on 13 October, saying: “An attacking midfielder at home playing as a No 8 or No 10, there is a buzz around McGrath, a boyhood Villa fan who joined the club a few years ago from Birmingham City.
“He scored and set up another goal away to Newcastle in the fourth round of the FA Youth Cup last season and was influential as Villa went on to win the trophy – beating Manchester City in the final – as part of a historic domestic treble for their Under-18s.
“A budding free-kick specialist, his performances for Villa have gained recognition with England and Scotland at both Under-16s and Under-17s level.“
Who are the best academy prospects at Aston Villa?
There is no shortage of excitement for the future at Villa Park as the youth squads continue to grow in quality.
Last season, winning the FA Youth Cup, U18 Premier League South title and national title was unprecedented and showcased exactly how excellent the academy ranks are.
McGrath has played a part in that, but there is no doubt about the level of quality that surrounds him in claret and blue.
- Ben Broggio is a standout for the Villans as a local lad with superb technical ability and an eye for goal from the flank.
- Jamaldeen Jimoh-Aloba is another who looks destined for a regular spot in the senior set-up after what has been an excellent 12 months for the young midfielder.
- In defence, Villa also have the reliance of Triston Rowe to look forward to once he returns from his loan spell at Annecy FC.
These are just three of many names destined for success as they continue to showcase what they are about for the Young Lions.
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