Gerrard can unearth his next Matty Cash in AVFC's teen sensation who's a “cut above” - opinion

Aston Villa might already boast one of the top young right-backs in the Premier League in Matty Cash, but Steven Gerrard may soon have competition for the Poland international in Kaine Kesler-Hayden.

The 19-year-old earned rave reviews on loan with Swindon Town and MK Dons last season and looks to have a big future at Villa, so fans might not have to wait too long until they see him starting in the first-team.

The academy graduate did feature in the infamous 4-1 FA Cup defeat against Liverpool in January 2021, when the pandemic forced the Villans to play an academy side, but the right-back may soon find himself lining up alongside the likes of Philippe Coutinho.

Last season saw him sent to Swindon in League Two for the first half of the campaign, where he made 21 appearances, contributing one goal and two assists, before those at Villa decided he needed to test himself at a higher level.

He was sent to League One promotion hopefuls MK Dons, helping Liam Manning’s side to a playoff spot with one goal and one assist in 17 appearances.

During his time with the Robins, local reporter Johnny Leighfield sang his praises, saying:

“He’s just a cut above. He’s got a brilliant turn of pace and a player who likes to do his damage up the other end of the pitch.

“He’s got everything about him to play either Championship or Premier League football regularly.”

It would not be a surprise to see the teenage defender earn a Championship loan next season, although Gerrard might be keen to assess the youngster in pre-season to see if he could compete with Cash for a starting spot first.

Kesler-Hayden may struggle to usurp the Polish full-back, however, as he was one of the standout performers for Villa last season, averaging a strong 6.91