Gerrard backs Nigeria born teen to be next big star 

Aston Villa manager Steve Gerrard says his latest teen-sensation Nigeria born Tim Iroegbunam is in with a shout of becoming a top team regular - once he finds his voice.

Gerrard handed the 18-year-old midfielder his first Premier League start in Saturday's 2-0 win over Norwich City and was quietly impressed by the youngster.

However, he wants the local boy from nearby Great Barr to become far more pushy and vocal on and off the park if he is to fill Villa's problem position in defensive midfield. 

"He’s a really good professional but he needs to find his voice and come out of his shell," said Gerrard. 

"He needs to realise he is a first-team player now, he needs to use his voice more, he needs to keep pushing himself on a daily basis. 

"He’s got all the attributes to be a top Premier League player in my opinion. We’ll keep working and developing him. 

"He’s got a really exciting future in front of him and he needs to take confidence and belief with the trust and opportunity that  he has had in the last few weeks."

Iroegbunam was signed from West Brom and he impressed Gerrard when he sent him on as a substitute against Leicester City last week.

He has challenged the teenager to follow in Jacob Ramsey's footsteps to become the latest graduate from Villa's successful Academy system.

"We trusted him in a big game and sent a clear message to all our academy lads that if you train well and out-train certain individuals, you’ll get an opportunity," he said

"Tim had some good moments and you can see the profile and what he's going to become.

"He can cover ground quickly, he’s aggressive and he uses the ball really well.

"There will be plenty more opportunities for him moving forward if he keeps training consistently well."