Source: Team_Talk
Clark has bright future - Petrov
Rookie defender Clark made an impressive debut alongside Carlos Cuellar in Sunday's 2-0 home win over Fulham after Curtis Davies was ruled out with a recurrence of his shoulder problem.[LNB]The 19-year-old may now have to take a back seat following the arrival of Collins and Dunne from West Ham and Manchester City respectively.[LNB]But Petrov believes the Academy product has already shown enough potential to be earmarked as a player who can make his mark long term at Villa.[LNB]The Bulgarian international said: "Ciaran Clark has got a big part to play. He was very impressive during pre-season.[LNB]"He played well in the Peace Cup over in Spain and against Fulham he acted like he has already got 100 games behind him.[LNB]"It is great to see young boys with such confidence and ability, especially from the youth team, and you want to see players like that break into the first team.[LNB]"He was excellent. Gabby (Agbonlahor) was the man of the match for us - but Ciaran was not far behind him. I really mean that."[LNB]Villa have lifted the early season gloom via back to back wins over Liverpool at Anfield and the Cottagers.[LNB]But Petrov is aware they need to sustain their form throughout the entire campaign after a late fade last season cost them the chance of competing in the Champions League.[LNB]He said: "If we want to get back into Europe again, we need to play well and do very well all the time.[LNB]"We need more consistency throughout the season."[LNB]Dunne and Collins are expected to make their Villa debuts in the derby clash with Birmingham on September 13.[LNB][LNB]
