Jacob Ramsey says it was a ‘dream come true’ to make his Premier League debut for Aston Villa.
When the 19-year-old was introduced as a substitute in a 3-0 win against Fulham last month, it was the latest step forward for a player who joined the club as a schoolboy.
The midfielder sat down with VillaTV to reflect on his first team involvement, family ties to the club and his hopes for the rest of the season.
“I’ve been at the club since I was seven and I’ve come up through all the age groups in the Academy, so I was buzzing to make my Premier League debut,” he said.
“After the game against Fulham, the gaffer said well done to me and the squad gave me a round of applause which was nice.
“The lads were saying that I deserved it and that they hope there are many more [appearances] to come, so that was a big confidence boost.”
Jacob is the eldest of three brothers in the Villa Academy, so his top-flight debut served as something to inspire as well as celebrate in the Ramsey household.
He said: “We didn’t get back until late after the Fulham game and my family were still up when I got home.
“When I walked through the door everyone was smiling and happy for me.
“I’ve got two younger brothers in the Academy and I’m a role model to them. Me making my Premier League debut is something they aspire to do as well.”
After being selected as one of a number of Academy players to attend the first team’s training camp in Wales in August, strong performances in pre-season saw Dean Smith hand Ramsey a full debut against Burton Albion in the Carabao Cup.
The youngster started and impressed in Round Three and Four, and Ramsey is keen to keep improving after getting a taste of first team action.
He said: “Every training session I’m gaining more confidence, staying behind and doing extra bits with Richard O’Kelly. I come in everyday wanting to improve.
“I’ve made a strong start to the season in the Carabao Cup and making my Premier League debut. I’m hoping more opportunities will come.”
