Aston Villa manager Dean Smith faces a difficult task if he is to convince loan striker Tammy Abraham that his long-term future is at Villa Park, after the 21-year-old told the Evening Standard that he is ready to lead the line for Chelsea next season, after firing Aston Villa back into the Premier League.

Abraham has been on fire for Villa this season scoring 26 goals and making three assists in 40 appearances, form that has left Villa keen on signing the player on loan for another season.

But is Abraham ready to lead the line for Chelsea as he claims?

We discuss........

George Dagless

"I'm really not sure.

"He's a good young forward and is too good for the Championship but remains unproven in the Premier League.

"If Eden Hazard leaves that is going to be a really tough job next year and he'll have to be bang at it from the off."

[ad_pod ]

Alfie Burns

“I’m not convinced he is yet, but Abraham is probably ready to take part at Stamford Bridge.

“Leading the line and having that much pressure on you is a lot, and Abraham needs to be patient, but you’ve got to praise his ambition.

“That attitude can take him a long way and in time, he could crack it at Chelsea.”

George Brooks

"I think so.

"Abraham was outstanding for Aston Villa in the Championship last season and deserves a chance to prove himself in the top flight for Chelsea.

"Chelsea could be forced to call upon the striker because of their transfer ban and Abraham should finally be ready to take his chance.

"His performances for Swansea in the Premier League were okay, but I'm sure he will be full of confidence after his performances for Villa last season."