Jack McGrath could be knocking on Unai Emery’s door after Aston Villa Under-18 brace
Jack McGrath could be knocking on Aston Villa manager Unai Emery’s door shortly after his brace for the Under-18s on Tuesday.
McGrath scored two goals as the young Villans hammered West Ham’s youth team 3-1 at Bodymoor Heath on 17 March.
It was an impressive performance from the 17-year-old, who continues to go from strength to strength in the academy ranks.
The Aston Villa boss could seek fresh impetus for his side as they chase a Champions League qualification place.
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Why Emery must have his eye on McGrath
McGrath is one of Villa’s most promising talents, and has now taken his tally of goal contributions to 20 for the campaign.
He has notched 13 goals and seven assists in 23 appearances for Richard Beale’s side, in a brilliant individual season.
Surely, it will only be a matter of time before he is making an impression on Emery and the first-team coaches.
Who is Jack Mcgrath – Aston Villa’s next potential star?
McGrath is an attacking midfielder, who is regarded as creative and technically adept, and he agreed to scholarship terms with the club before the 2025/26 campaign.
He was signed from Birmingham City in 2021, but is a lifelong Villans supporter, and has also represented both England and Scotland at youth international level.
The youngster has notched nine goals in his last nine matches, while also grabbing two assists in those games.
Emery can’t ignore him for much longer, if he continues in this vein of form, and he may see the senior matchday squad before the end of the season.
It would bring vital competition for Emiliano Buendia, who has gone off the boil massively in recent months, after an early resurgence to his career in B6.
He has put Emery on notice, but whether the Spaniard decides to pay attention remains to be seen.
McGrath could well become the latest star to emerge from the academy and make an impact for the Villa Park side, if he is given the chance.
Given the circumstances, the manager may decide that he does not want to take such a risk, but the young star would fancy his chances of stepping up.
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