Aston Villa prospect sends Steven Gerrard 'monumental' message

Cameron Archer quickly captured the hearts of both the coaching staff at Aston Villa and all the claret and blue faithful, that are so desperate for him to eventually break into the first team.

The young striker took a monumental step in the right direction to achieving this on Wednesday evening, as the 20-year-old impressed on his Championship debut for loan club Preston North End.

Whether it's his style of play, the manner in which he announced himself to Villa fans or making an impact on his debut, Archer wastes no time making his intentions clear and plays with an intensity and pace that overwhelms anyone standing in his way.

In just 26 minutes and only six touches of the ball last night against West Bromwich Albion, Archer displayed all the qualities that have sent Villa fans into a frenzy every time they've watched the player they call "one of our own".

His prowess and natural goal scoring ability meant he had a relatively easy header to clinch his first Championship goal, to add to several efforts in the EFL Trophy and Carabao Cup. Whether it's against National League opponents or the champions of Europe, Archer has an innate ability to drift into dangerous areas and it comes as no surprise that opportunities such as these present themselves.

From operating as the loan striker against Trevoh Chalobah, Reece James and Malang Sarr to playing out wide for Solihull Moors, Archer's profile allows him to play multiple positions in the front three and his immense physical attributes allow him to not only contribute, but to thrive.

Whatever task has been thrown at Archer, he has thrived under the pressure. The prospect of the player now getting regular game time at the Championship level should excite both Preston and