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Cameron Archer: Gerrard will be 'absolutely thrilled' by what pundit's seen from Aston Villa loanee
Aston Villa manager Steven Gerrard will be “absolutely thrilled” with the progress of Cameron Archer, according to Noel Whelan.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 20-year-old is benefitting from the “confidence and belief” he has found during his Preston loan spell.
Archer joined Preston last month (24 January) on loan for the rest of the season and has already netted two goals in three appearances.
The young striker scored four goals in two League Cup games this season before his exit.
Archer penned a fresh Aston Villa deal in December 2021, keeping him at the club until 2025.
When asked if the youngster could have a part to play for Aston Villa next term, Whelan told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury: “Absolutely.
“You never turn your back on loan players. They’ve only left the club temporarily in order to try and make them better players to come into the reckoning for next season.
“It’s such a valuable experience to go out and play first-team football. Archer is just another who looks like he’s benefitting from that confidence, that belief – he’s being nurtured well at Preston.
“He’ll come back a bigger and better player, ready to play a part under Steven Gerrard.
“He’s really risen to the occasion and shining through at Preston – he’s been superb. I’m sure Gerrard will be absolutely thrilled to see that.”
Gerrard’s principal striking options at present are English duo Danny Ings and Ollie Watkins.
Aston Villa sit 11th in the Premier League after beating Everton 1-0 last time out.
Preston sit just four points outside the play-off places in the Championship.
In other news, pundit issues ‘shock’ Calum Chambers verdict as Aston Villa details emerge.