'Ambitious' Ash not ready to go into retirement

Published date05 July 2022
Publication titleBirmingham Mail (England)
Young made 25 appearances for the club last term as he operated as a utility player under both Dean Smith and Gerrard

Though the majority of his appearances were at left-back, the 36-yearold was also deployed at right-back, centre-midfield, number 10 and on both flanks as a winger.

Young was released by Villa earlier this summer, having reached the end of his contract. However, the former England international credited Gerrard as being a "massive factor" in his decision to sign a new one-year deal.

"It was the ambition of the club, the manager, the staff and the players as well," he said. "I got to know the staff and the players really well last season, and I wasn't ready to go into retirement just yet.

"When I spoke to the manager towards the end of the season, he told me what he thought about me and that he wanted me to stay. He was a massive factor."

Having won league titles with Manchester United and Inter Milan since leaving Villa in 2011, Gerrard will hope Young's winning mentality can continue to improve his squad.

me to stay. He massive Ashley

The veteran admitted last season's 14th-placed finish was a disappointment but believes European nights could soon return under the current boss.

"I've loved every minute of it. It's been a good journey, a bit up and down last season but when a new manager comes in halfway through the season it's going to be tough,'' said Young.

"It was tough at times but we had good times as well and that was a factor in it. His ambition is to get us back into Europe, where I believe the club should be.

"That was a massive draw for me. I've enjoyed every minute of working with the manager and I'm delighted to have signed another year to continue working with him."

Meanwhile, Villa academy starlet Lamare Bogarde has signed a new long-term contract with the club.

The 18-year-old arrived from Feyenoord in 2020 and has impressed his coaches...

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