Agbonlahor: I've changed my mind about Jacob Ramsey after latest Aston Villa sighting
Gabriel Agbonlahor has admitted he has changed his mind about Aston Villa youngster Jacob Ramsey and tipped him to play a big role between now and the end of the season.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Villa's record Premier League goalscorer suggested the teenager could push on and establish himself ahead of Ross Barkley and Morgan Sanson in the midfield pecking order.
Agbonlahor told Football Insider last week Ramsey should seek a loan move to the Championship next season after he signed a new long-term contract with Villa.
The 19-year-old replaced Barkley against Leicester City at the weekend and ended the game with a 100 per cent pass accuracy, including two progressive passes and one shot-creating action.
“I said last week he should go out on loan but I don’t think that anymore, I’ve changed my mind,” Agbonlahor told Football Insider correspondent Connor Whitley.
“As Dean Smith showed he’s not afraid of starting him or bringing him on as first sub, the way certain players are playing he’s got a chance of making a lot of starts between now and the end of the season.
“I don’t think he needs to go on loan, staying at Aston Villa and pushing to get a starting place is what he needs to do.
“I rated him but I didn’t know how much Dean Smith rated him, but seeing Dean Smith’s comments and the way he comes on and effects the game he’s definitely somebody that needs to stay at Villa and push, push, push."