Teen star is making a big impression

BEDWORTH teenager Mitchell Clark is one of Aston Villa’s hottest academy prospects.

The 18-year-old defender is currently away with Wales Under-19s in Turkey.

It’s been quite a year for the full-back who made his firstteam debut earlier this season and is clearly destined for big things. gives the lowdown on the talented youngster.

Defender. Clark’s natural position is at right-back but he can also play as a rightsided centre-back and, blessed with two good feet, has shown his versatility by filling in at left-back.

The former Ash Green School pupil started out playing for Bedworth Eagles junior football club where he was scouted by a number of Midlands clubs before being picked up by Aston Villa.

The young defender signed for Villa’s Academy at the tender age of eight, progressing through the age groups to earn a scholarship and then Pro Contract after playing regularly for the Under-16s. His impressive development continued through to the Under-18s and on to the Under-23 development squad, of which he is now a key member.

After some eye-catching displays with the Under-23s, Clark made his full first team debut in front of just over 18,000 fans at Villa Park against Wigan Athletic in the Carabao Cup as Villa won 4-1. .

After representing Wales Under-16s, he’s progressed to the Under-19s where he’s currently captain of the side that’s taking part in a UEFA international tournament which is playing it’s qualifying group games in Turkey.

Clark possesses plenty of pace and likes to get forward to attack on the overlap and can score goals.

The teenager’s current contract runs out in the summer but is highly rated and expected to be offered a new deal by Villa as he continues his development and progression.