'Big', 'Standing ovation' - Media blown away by 'proper' Aston Villa player vs Norwich

Aston Villa midfielder Tim Iroegbunam was at the centre of huge praise from the media for his display against Norwich City this afternoon.

Steven Gerrard’s side cruised to a 2-0 victory at home to the Canaries with goals from Ollie Watkins and Danny Ings in either half cementing all three points.

Villa’s first win in six games was the perfect response to an otherwise regrettable recent run as Gerrard and co get back on track and look to finish 2021/2022 on a positive note.

One huge positive from today was the assured and noteworthy full Premier League debut for young midfielder Iroegbunam.

The 18-year-old, on his first full English top flight start, seriously impressed a few journalists during the win over Norwich today.

Lauded for playing in defensive midfield with ‘aplomb’, it seems as if Gerrard and Villa may have a ‘proper talent’ on their hands.

Here’s how the media reacted:

“Big positive from the first 45 was Tim Iroegbunam. Grew into the game and showed great awareness. Just 18 and playing DM with aplomb in the Premier League. Looks a proper talent.” – Mark Samuels, as seen on The Guardian.

“Tim Iroegbunam comes off. A great debut for the 18-year-old, especially off the ball. Step by step, baby.” – Luis Miguel Echegaray, Que Golazo Podcast, CBS Sports.

“Standing ovation for Tim Iroegbunam as he is replaced by Douglas Luiz. A bright performance from the 18-year-old.” Gregg Evans, The Athletic.

At just 18, the talented homegrown ace certainly proved his worth on his first full league start.

According to SofaScore, Iroegbunam won a brilliant 4/6 duels in total – proving to hold his own as an anchor in front of the back four – and even managed a higher match rating than first team captain Tyrone Mings.

If the starlet