Delfouneso still learning

Aston Villa starlet Nathan Delfouneso is pleased with the progress he has made this season. The 18-year-old striker has forced his way into Martin O'Neill's first-team plans this term, ousting experienced stars such as Marlon Harewood on his way. He was a regular in Villa's Uefa Cup campaign and has already been handed his Premier League debut. The talented teenager has also been a key man for England U19s as the Young Lions continue with their preparations for this summer's European Championship qualifying tournament. "It has been a mixture of playing international games and back at club level that has improved my development over the season," Delfouneso told givemefootball.com following England's 0-0 draw with Czech Republic on Wednesday. "It has been a case of trying to develop that and take it forward and international football is definitely helping my education." Delfouneso believes competing at an international standard will have a positive impact on any player, especially those who have yet to secure regular first-team outings at club level. "Games like this are important for all the team to go and play against people who are at a high level and it is also good to test yourself personally and playing with better players is good," he added. "International football is obviously different to club football as you are playing against different nationalities and cultures. It is part of our education."

Source: SKY_Sports