Bannan keen to stay with Villa

Aston Villa midfielder Barry Bannan is eager to commit his long-term future to the club.

Bannan has one year remaining of his current deal and is highly regarded by boss Martin O'Neill, but has been linked with a move to Wigan. He made his debut in the UEFA Cup clash in Hamburg in December and gained valuable experience during a loan spell with Derby.

Villa are understood to be lining up a new deal for the 19-year-old Academy product. The Scot said: "I've got a year left of my current contract so hopefully I've done enough to prove to the manager that I've earned a new contract."

He added: "It's up to him, but if I get one I'll sign it straight away because I love this club. They've been brilliant for me since I've been here."

Bannan admitted O'Neill's willingness to give youth a chance is a big factor in his desire to remain with Villa.

He said: "The aim now is to push on even further next season. It's been hard to break through, because of how well the team has done recently.

"But the manager has shown he is ready to give young players a chance if they're good enough."

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