George Boateng says Aston Villa Under-21s are ready and raring to go for their Premier League 2 opener against Middlesbrough.
The Young Lions begin their campaign at Bodymoor Heath on Friday night in a game that will be shown live on VillaTV+ (ko 6pm).
Boateng, Professional Development Phase Coach for the U21s, is looking forward to getting the season underway.
Watch the U21s v Middlesbrough on VillaTV+
“Because it’s the first game of the season, everyone will be up for it,” he said.
“The players are ready to go. We want to win the game but it’s about development – can we have a really good performance as a team and as individuals?
“I’m sure there will be a few scouts out there, so we want to showcase the players we’ve got who are due for a loan. Hopefully one or two will impress because we want them to get a loan and further their career.
“Overall, if we can perform well, I’m sure the result will look after itself.”
Friday’s tilt against Middlesbrough comes on the heels of a strong pre-season for the Academy, with several young players featuring on the first team’s tour of Australia.
Boateng believes strong showings from the likes of Josh Feeney will provide added incentive for players in the Under-21s to break into the first team.
He said: “When the list came out and the gaffer chose those players to go on training camp, the whole Academy was really happy. They’re good players and they didn’t go just to be a number.
“They went there to really push and drive and take a shirt from one of the first team players. Josh Feeney, we had really good feedback about Josh’s trip and the way he performed.
“It was similar for Kaine Kesler Hayden, I thought he was outstanding against Manchester United. Ben Chrisene got some minutes out there and Tim Iroegbunam is still playing with the first team.
“All these are encouraging signs for the young players that are with the Under-21s. If you’re a young player and you can see your colleague getting an opportunity in the first team, it inspires you.
“That’s why we think what the gaffer is doing in giving the opportunities is tremendous and helping out the Academy.”
This season the Under-21 squad will be led by new Senior Professional Development Phase Coach Tony Carss.
Carss and Boateng have a strong relationship in place having worked together previously, and the Dutchman believes he’s the right man to lead the team.
He said: “For me, it was great news when I heard Tony was coming in. I was with him at Blackburn Rovers when he was my head of coaching.
“He’s someone who has guided me as a coach, and I’ve learnt a lot from Tony. To have him here again is fantastic.
“He’s a fantastic coach and I know already how he works. I think he’ll benefit the Academy very much.”
