Along the years, Aston Villa have always managed to produce first-team quality youngsters.

This season, they have Gary Gardner and Jack Grealish regularly getting selected in the matchday squad. Both of these players came through Aston Villa's academy.

A large number of notable Premier League players have also been produced by Aston Villa.

Current player Gabby Agbonlahor came through the academy, as did Gareth Barry, Gary Cahill, Marc Albrighton and Danny Sturridge.

It has been dark times for the Villains over the past few years, sinking from European football to their first ever relegation from the Premier League. Plenty of money has been splashed on players and most of it, quite frankly, has been wasted.

In times such as these, it is worth remembering that they do have a reputable academy full of players eager to break into the first team.

Here are THREE players that are on the verge of finding a regular spot in the first team squad...

 

Jordan Lyden

Jordan Lyden has already been handed a few first team opportunities and has really impressed at youth level.

The 20-year-old made six appearances in all competitions for Villa last year but did not play at all under di Matteo.

The Australia under-20 international is a solid defensive midfielder who could be given opportunities if Ashley Westwood's abysmal form continues.

Rushian Hepburn-Murphy

Aston Villa are desperate to keep Rushian Hepburn-Murphy at the club but his contract expires next summer.

The 18-year-old is regarded as one of the country's best young strikers and he has represented England at every youth level up to the under-18s.

The local boy has been handed two late league cameos, both against Newcastle, and could be set for more first team opportunities if Villa can convince him to sign a new contract.

Andre Green

Villa fans are crying out for Andre Green to be given more game time.

The England under-18 international has shown glimpses of his blistering pace and ability to take on defenders with a few cameos on the wing.

The 18-year-old signed a new three year contract in the summer despite reported interest from a number of Premier League clubs.

Aston Villa are certainly short in the wide areas with Jack Grealish's erratic behaviour and Albert Adomah's injury problems so Green could be handed more game time this season.