Aston Villa manager Steven Gerrard is now looking to give young forward Cameron Archer opportunities this season.
This is according to Sky Sports reporter Mark McAdam, who mentioned the Villains during a recent transfer Q&A on his Instagram account.
Villa made a bright start to the summer window with the addition of four permanent signings, including Philippe Coutinho returning to Villa Park for good.
At just 20 years old, Archer has now racked up some first-team football in the men’s game during his spell on loan with Preston North End last season.
And off the back of the successful loan spell, McAdam believes Gerrard has the youngster’s development in mind and is looking to provide him with opportunities this season.
Responding to whether Villa could seek another attacker this summer, he said: “Stevie G wants to give this man the chance to impress in pre-season. I like him a lot.
“They have good options already at the club.”
TIF Thoughts on Romano’s comments…
Despite their impressive start to the summer window, a new striker is not an area Gerrard has addressed, which could certainly leave the door open to an opportunity for Archer.
Does Archer deserve a shot in the first team?
Yes
No
Danny Ings had a steady, if not unspectacular 2021/22 campaign. The 29-year-old only netted seven Premier League goals, which we think may lead to Gerrard looking to provide him with some competition.
Archer had an impressive spell in the Championship last season with Preston, where in just 20 appearances, he was able to net seven goals and provide one assist.
If Archer was able to hit the ground running under Gerrard as he did at Deepdale, there is definitely the possibility he could provide Ings with some competition if the ex-Southampton ace fails to start the season with any venom.