Sign up NOW for our daily Villa newsletter direct to your inbox Subscribe Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Invalid Email

Remi Garde is determined to improve the Aston Villa academy after introducing teenager Keinan Davis into the matchday 18 for the first time this season.

The 17-year-old striker, signed from non-league outfit Biggleswade Town in December, was an unused substitute in the victory over Norwich as the manager once again looked to the youth set-up for fresh legs.

At West Ham last week, 19-year-old defender Niall Mason received his first call-up while Jordan Lyden has also enjoyed a promotion from the U21 set up this term,

In the Capital One Cup, Corey Blackett-Taylor and Easah Suliman appeared on the bench and Garde insists there will be more in the future.

Pictures

Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will start in 8 Cancel Play now

“It’s a sign for this academy that we will need some players going through,” he said when asked about Davis’ inclusion.

“There is a lot of work to do with this kind of player.

“They need to have many training sessions with me and the first-team to have the opportunity to play.

“Probably because of Aston Villa’s situation it means there is a big opportunity for these type of players.

“It was Keinan today, and if they work well the others could have an opportunity.

“You know how much I like to work with young players. I will be very careful with all these guys.”