Aston Villa are considering recalling Kaine Kesler-Hayden from his season-long loan spell at Huddersfield Town, according to The Athletic.

The 20-year-old has managed just six starts in the Championship this season, after catching the eye on loan at Swindon Town and Milton Keynes Dons last term, and for that reason it would not be a surprise to see him re-deployed once again.

On reflection, Villa may feel that they rushed the England U20 international's progression to the second tier, after the bulk of his minutes last term came in League Two.

With that in mind, sending Kesler-Hayden back out to a League One club could be the smartest course of action in the January transfer window.

The 20-year-old can play as a right back in a back four or a right wing back in a back three system, which would make a lot of third tier clubs attractive destinations.

The likes of Ipswich Town, Sheffield Wednesday and Plymouth Argyle, essentially the automatic promotion race in the third tier, all play three at the back systems, but have options that may see Kesler-Hayden struggle for minutes.

Therefore, the best option for Villa may be Derby County.

Paul Warne is not known for developing younger players in his managerial career so far, but the Rams are crying out for a specialist right back or right wing back to aid the balance of their side.

Korey Smith and Jason Knight has slotted in at times this season, but neither are specialist in the role, and there is a strong argument that County lose something in central areas when the latter has to drop back to full back or wing back.

Kesler-Hayden is a very attack-minded full back, very few make the cut in youth football without attacking capabilities, and with the likes of James Collins and David McGoldrick to aim for in attack, it would be an excellent learning experience for the 20-year-old.

 

 

Not many people foresaw the drop-off that Huddersfield Town have suffered this season, having finished third last term, and the stress of their situation in the league table has made the environment more difficult for someone looking to adapt to life in the Championship.

Villa's youth development record has been very strong in the last few seasons and they can be trusted to pick a smart next move for Kesler-Hayden, Derby should definitely be one that they consider if they show interest.