Steven Gerrard stated that Carney Chukwuemeka showed ‘real power’ during his cameo appearance during Aston Villa’s 2-2 draw against Manchester United on Saturday, as he told Sky Sports.
Moments before Villa started their comeback via Jacob Ramsey, Chukwuemeka was introduced into the action for Danny Ings.
The 18-year-old was involved in the build-up to both goals and showcased his strength when winning his duels in the middle of the park.
Whilst Philippe Coutinho understandably stole the headlines for scoring on his Villa debut.
The 20 odd minute cameo from Chukwuemeka shouldn’t go unnoticed because it was eye-catching.
Nonetheless, this is what Gerrard had to say about the Villa teenager and Kortney Hause, who came on for the injured Ezri Konsa at half-time.
“I thought Carney came on and showed real power,” said Gerrard. “For an 18-year-old kid.
“Kortney (Hause) played as a right-sided centre-back, who is left-footed and he held his own. So, the subs were really positive.”
The performance from the bench by Chukwuemeka was one worthy of him possibly earning a start against Everton next week.
The problem facing the teenager is that John McGinn, following his suspension, is ahead of the ice-cold midfielder and should return to the XI at Goodison Park.
Whilst Jacob Ramsey scored and assisted against Manchester United, so he’s not playing ahead of the thriving boyhood Villa fan.
Either way, he isn’t far off from earning those starts and the highly-rated midfielder is showing a lot of promise in Claret and Blue colours.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
