Villa academy director Bryan Jones today hit out at FIFA’s decision to block their move for Australian teenager Reece Caira – and then ban the youngster.

Despite holding a British passport due to his English father, 16-year-old Caira’s transfer to Villa was rejected by FIFA, who then added insult to injury by suspending the midfielder from football until he is 18 in January 2011.

Villa are now awaiting an explanation from FIFA, which is expected before Christmas, and, in the meantime, are seeking legal support.

“The Cairas as a family have been over here for about 12 months,” said Jones.

“He’s a British passport holder, the father was born in England and yet FIFA, for some strange reason, will not allow a boy who has a British passport to play football in this country.

“I cannot see any reason why he should not be allowed to ply his trade over here. The problem has been created by the Australian FA.

“There are people in the Australian FA who feel it is better for 16-18-year-old Australian players to be developed there.”

Meanwhile, Gary Gardner scored a hat-trick as Villa cruised into round four of the FA Youth Cup with a 4-0 victory over Rochdale last night.