By Dan Harrison

Gabby Agbonlahor is one of the biggest success stories of Villa's academy system - and he admits it has been refreshing to see a new batch of youngsters follow in his footsteps.

At the age of just 23, the speedy striker is the club's longest-serving player, having progressed through the ranks to make his first team debut in March 2006.

Already this season six more academy products have taken significant steps towards emulating his path.

Marc Albrighton made his first Premier League start in the 3-0 victory over West Ham, on the same aftenoon that Barry Bannan and Andreas Weimann were handed their top flight bows.

Jonathan Hogg and Eric Lichaj lined up for their senior debuts in the Europa League play-off first leg against Rapid Vienna, while Ciaran Clark made league appearances against West Ham and Newcastle.

Agbonlahor, who was first on Villa's books as an eight-year-old, believes seeing the youngsters come to the fore has been one of the highlights of the campaign so far.

He told AVTV: "I think if you look at the likes of Marc Albrighton and Ciaran Clark and the impression they have made - and Barry Bannan too - they have been terrific.

"Obviously there was a bad result against Newcastle but if you look at the positives since the start of the season, there are the younger lads coming through and showing they are coping with life in the Premier League."

Agbonlahor is perfectly placed to pass on advice to the young lions, as they look to earn regular places in the first team.

The forward has warned the talented bunch that they will face plenty of ups and downs along the way.

However, performances in the opening day victory against the Hammers and the draw in Vienna have convinced him that all six are capable of making an impact at Villa.

Agbonlahor added: "Sometimes it doesn't happen for you every game. That happens with everyone that comes through.

"Not every game is going to be perfect. But if you look at the West Ham game, the way they played in that game and in the European game, it shows they have got the talent. Hopefully they can keep it going."