Bannan hopeful of new deal

04 July 2009 22:26
Aston Villa midfielder Barry Bannan is eager to commit his long-term future to the Premier League club.[LNB] Bannan, 19, has one year remaining on his current contract and is highly regarded by manager Martin O'Neill, but has been linked with a move to Wigan Athletic.[LNB]He made his debut in the Uefa Cup clash in Hamburg last December and gained valuable experience during a loan spell with Derby County.[LNB]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.[LNB]"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."[LNB]Bannan admitted O'Neill's willingness to give youth a chance is a big factor in his desire to remain with Villa.[LNB]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.[LNB]"But the manager has shown he is ready to give young players a chance if they're good enough."[LNB]

Source: SKY_Sports