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Aston Villa rookie Lewis Kinsella has given Tim Sherwood food for thought - by making sure he is recognised in the queue for the canteen!

Sherwood has been impressed with Kinsella after inviting him to train with the first team squad at Bodymoor Heath.

The 20-year-old left back travelled with the squad to Newcastle last month and was an unused substitute for last weekend’s FA Cup victory over West Bromwich Albion.

Kinsella has made an instant impression on the training pitches and made the new manager take notice of him.

“He’s done well,” said Sherwood.

“He is a player you recognise on the pitch because he leaves someone sprawling out on the floor every time he’s out there.

Can you spot yourself in the Villa Park crowd against Albion?

“For a young boy he’s not shy. I want them to be recognised. I certainly know his name.

“I’m not going to walk past him in the restaurant. Sometimes you see kids and I could be at a club for a year and I still don’t know their name and they’ve trained with us 100 times.

“That’s not what I’m looking for.”

Kinsella is a doubt for tomorrow’s match at Sunderland after picking up a slight ankle injury in Monday’s under-21s win at Bolton.

“He’s just got a kick in the under 21s game, so he might be struggling, but he’s a defender and that’s what happens here!” said Sherwood.

Kinsella has spoken of his excitement at joining the senio squad on training and matchdays in recent weeks.

“It was unbelievable to get the call – I didn’t expect it,” he said.

“Everything you imagined it would be like, it is - and more.

“It was incredible. It still doesn’t feel real. It’s like a dream come true.

“It gives me a huge lift to be involved.

“To be with the first team for that Newcastle game was a brilliant experience.

“When we went out for a walk, we were surrounded by fans. It was surreal.

“The two West Brom games were fantastic. The cup game had an unbelievable atmosphere. It was great to be part of.

Kinsella thanked Sherwood and new assistant boss Kevin MacDonald for giving the academy players chances.

“With the new gaffer, everyone is getting opportunities. Kev pushes on young players too.

“We are just desperate to show what we have for the gaffer.”