Barry Bannan is not looking to leave
Friday 24th September 2010, 11:10AM BST.
Villa midfielder Barry Bannan is set to disappoint a string of Championship clubs after insisting his immediate focus is forcing his way into new boss Gerard Houllier’s plans.
Houllier picked out Bannan for praise after the miniature maestro shone in the Carling Cup win over Blackburn.
The 20-year-old Scot has attracted interest from a host of Championship clubs, with Sheffield United reportedly leading the chase.
But Bannan insists he wants to stay and stake a claim for a first-team place.
He said: “My first thoughts are to play for Villa. I am not looking to move now, because I want to stay here and hopefully impress the new manager and be involved at some point.
“It would be silly to go out on loan, because you wouldn’t be getting looked at. If you are here, you are getting watched every day in training.
“It is a fresh start for everyone. If you are the best in training he will pick you.”
Houllier described Bannan, who scored a hat-trick against Manchester United’s reserves last week, as a player of “skill and intelligence.”
And the youngster hopes Houllier’s emphasis on a passing game can work in his favour.
He said: “The gaffer is very big on that. He wants us to play, pass, generally go and enjoy the game, so that is right up my street.
“Some of the new things he is bringing in are exciting for the club.”
Bannan insists he can still mix it, despite his diminutive 5ft 7in frame.
He saod: “I’ve said before if you are good enough you don’t really get into physical battles. You avoid it if you are quick and bright enough.
“I’m not really fussed about that – I just think if they are big and strong then you play to your strengths and don’t let them play to theirs.”
UK Sport
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