Alex McLeish's challenge to Enda Stevens
New-boy Enda Stevens will face a tough ask to dislodge first-choice left-back Stephen Warnock, according to Villa boss Alex McLeish.
New-boy Enda Stevens will face a tough ask to dislodge first-choice left-back Stephen Warnock, according to Villa boss Alex McLeish.
The Ireland Under-21 international has now started training with Villa's squad following his move from St Patrick's Athletic and will be eligible to play for the claret and blues as soon as the deal is rubberstamped when the transfer window opens next week.
McLeish believes Stevens will be hard pressed to displace Warnock – who has not missed a minute of Premier League action this season – but is certain the Irish youngster will play his part at some stage.
"Enda will have quite a way to go to break in because Stephen Warnock has been in great form," said McLeish.
"He's a young player but we're hoping when he joins he will get to grips with everything and adapt very quickly to put pressure on guys like Stephen.
"It will be nice to have another body in the squad and he's a player who has got some potential.
"If you look at the squad, who do you leave out? I've got Ciaran Clark who can play there and he is playing well at the moment as well.
"If someone is out for whatever reason then there might be some opportunities, but it is up to Enda to hit the ground running in training and do well so I think 'Let's get this guy involved'.