Villa rookie eyes Saddlers chance

Villa rookie Nathan Delfouneso should get another chance to stake his first-team claims in the friendly at Walsall tonight.

The striker also believes new Premier League rules stating clubs must name seven subs won't do his chances any harm either.

The 17-year-old prospect is likely to be given a run-out at the Banks's Stadium, with Villa boss Martin O'Neill expected to rest one or two senior players in the annual friendly with the Saddlers.

Delfouneso added to his growing reputation by finding the net in the 6-0 drubbing of FC Wil 1900 during Villa's pre-season training camp in Switzerland.

He hopes the decision of Premier League chiefs, to increase the number of players on the bench from five to seven, may give him the opportunity to increase it further still.

He said: "The fact there are seven subs in Premier League matches next season won't do me any harm. Young players across the country have two extra chances to get into the squad now.

"I travelled with the squad last season but just didn't get into the bench. Now I hope I've got a better chance.

"I know the gaffer wants to bring in more players yet but I've got to be confident in my own ability. I can do enough to get into the squad and then push on from there."

Clubs will still only be allowed to bring on three substitutes.