'Couldn't wait' - Aston Villa youngster reacts to surprise Europa Conference League start

Aston Villa midfielder Tim Iroegbunam has said it was 'great' to start away at Ajax in the Europa Conference League on Thursday night.

Unai Emery handed a start to the youngster in the heart of midfield along with Douglas Luiz.

Iroegbunam, 21, helped the Midlands outfit secure a 0-0 draw at the Amsterdam Arena with the tie all to play for heading into the second leg at Villa Park.

He has said, as per the official club website: "When the gaffer told me earlier, I was excited and I just couldn’t wait to play.

“It’s an amazing stadium and the fans were amazing. A great place to make my second start for the club.”

The prospect added: “It went well.

"It's always tough coming away from home, especially against an historic club like Ajax.

“The fact that we came away with a draw is a good thing and it’s all to play for in the second leg.”

Iroegbunam joined Aston Villa back in 2021 from rivals West Brom and has since risen up the ranks.

He has made 10 appearances in all competitions, six of which have come in this campaign.

The ex-England youth international was given the green light to spend last term on loan at QPR in the Championship to get some experience under his belt.

He went on to play 32 matches for the Hoops in all competitions to boost his development, chipping in with two goals, before heading back home last summer.

Aston Villa face Tottenham Hotspur next on Sunday.