By Paul Brown

Nathan Delfouneso will be hoping to get a glimpse of his hero Thierry Henry this evening as the star striker goes in search of a place in the Champions League final with Barcelona.

The 18-year-old revealed his admiration for the speed demon striker - after being compared to him in French magazine Onze.

"Henry is a player I've always admired. He was one of my idols when I was younger and I really like his style.

"I always enjoyed watching him because he's been one of the best players in the world over the past few years.

"When I was given a squad number and I learned number 14 was available, that's the one I wanted because it's the one Henry wears. I would love to live up to it."

The magazine's journalists, who devoted an eight-page feature to Villa, certainly think Nathan has the potential to do just that.

They wrote: "At 18, he is the future of the club and similarities with the French striker can only help his career.

"His speed, technique, style, defensive work, putting his thumbs up to his partner - they have many things in common."