Cahill preparing for Premiership football

Last updated : 14 March 2005 By Tony Scholes

Cahill arrived at the Turf back in December as we were set to face Spurs with both our regular central defenders ruled out with injury. The 18 year-old, with no first team experience at all, literally drove up the M6 and within a couple of hours was making his Burnley debut.

He did well and things have just got better for the youngster who has turned in assured performances almost one after the other. We extended the loan twice and have got him until the end of the season.

That’s where it will end for our particular Claret & Blue, next season he’ll be back at Villa Park and could well be set to break into the first team.

“I saw him against Blackburn and he played really well,” said Villa boss O’Leary. “I’ve seen him as the one of any of the young players that can really do it.

“I think going to Burnley has been a great education for him. He did really well against Blackburn and he’s got a good chance.

“A few weeks after they took him I told Steve Cotterill it wasn’t about buying the player. This is a lad that I want to be pushed on. I’m a great believer in that.

“I wanted to let him go out and prove himself. I knew it might be tough at the start, but he would sink or swim. That’s what I believe in. Only time will tell, but he really is showing good signs and I’m very hopeful for him.”

So Gary Cahill will still be playing in Claret & Blue next season but it won’t be ours, I’m sure Burnley fans will be keeping a close eye on Villa Park next season though looking out for his Premiership debut.