Aston Villa have confirmed that Josh Feeney has signed a new long-term contract to commit his future to the club.
The 18-year-old joined us from Fleetwood Town in July 2021, and while he has been involved with the senior squad in training and in pre-season previously, he has played his part at youth level since arriving.
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With a change of manager at the top though, there is always the chance of the club going in a different direction and not seeing a pathway for certain youngsters, but that doesn’t appear to be the case for him.
Although the length of his new deal isn’t confirmed, the club’s statement reveals the agreement has been reached and Feeney will hope to have a big future ahead of him in a Villa shirt.
Having featured against Walsall last weekend, he could travel with the squad to the USA for our pre-season tour, while a decision will perhaps be needed this summer as to whether or not he is sent out on loan to play regularly at a higher level.
Villa’s Academy has produced some top talents in recent years, and the hope is always that they eventually make their breakthrough at senior level. However, although it may not be the desired outcome in most cases, it’s important to also continue to bring these young players through to sell them on for a decent fee if there isn’t a pathway.
Time will tell which route Feeney goes down, but for now, it’s a day for him to celebrate and to take confidence and faith from the club’s decision to continue to work hard and try and impress Unai Emery moving forward.
Competition for places is evidently fierce in defence now, particularly with Pau Torres joining the group alongside Tyrone Mings, Ezri Konsa and Diego Carlos, but Feeney’s development will be one to watch as Emery has to decide what’s best for his progress both in the short term and long term picture.