Lichaj Delighted With Debut

Eric Lichaj was thrilled to make his debut for the Villa against Malaga and he's now hoping to get even more pitch time.

The American youngster hasn't looked back since switching his attentions from Chicago Fire to Aston Villa, a solid reserve performances saw him gain his long awaiting first team debut in our Peace Cup opening loss to Malaga.

Speaking on the official site, he admitted he was nervous when he first found out he would be playing but that he managed to calm himself and just play his own game.

'I never had a dream to play in the Barclays Premier League when I was younger. I always wanted to play for Chicago Fire but when this opportunity came along I couldn't say no.

'I would love to forge a career with Villa.'

As for the debut:

'It was an amazing experience to make my debut against Malaga. When the gaffer announced the team I was nervous at first. I calmed down and relaxed eventually but it was inevitable that I would have some nerves going into the game. I settled down as I got hold of the ball and started passing it.

'I just said to myself 'you have to play your own game.' I always play at right-back so it's nothing new to me. It's just I am with the big boys now.'

Lichaj did look useful to me in the Malaga match but, his simple mistake that led to the goal was one of experience, or lack thereof.

He definitely has the chance to show what he can do, especially with Luke Young still sidelined with injury from last season, and it looks like he has the talent to mix it with the big boys - it's just down to him to prove it.

Click here to join in the debate on the club forum.