Aston Villa emerged from derby day as winners against Wolves, beating the Old Gold 2-0 at Villa Park, a day that was memorable for more than just the win for one player.
Unai Emery was delighted to see his side reclaim fourth place, as Aston Villa beat Wolves 2-0 in the Premier League on Saturday evening.
It was essential that the Villans secured three points against their Midlands rivals, as Spurs claimed fourth following their win over Luton Town earlier in the afternoon.
Goals from Moussa Diaby and Ezri Konsa decided the direction of the three points, on a day that saw more to be celebrated than just the goals.
Kaine Kesler-Hayden reacts to making his Premier League debut for Aston Villa
In the dying embers of the victory over Wolves, Emery made the decision to hand academy jewel Kaine Kesler-Hayden his Premier League debut for Villa.
The Birmingham-born talent who has risen through the ranks at Bodymoor Heath was given his career-defining moment so far by earning an appearance in the top flight, something that the 21-year-old described as a “dream”.
Taking to Twitter after the game, Kesler-Hayden penned a heartwarming reaction to his big day at Villa Park.
“Since the age of 8 it’s been a dream of mine to play for this club. After 13 years step by step league by league that dream has came true a very proud moment for me and my family thank you all and a massive 3 points!”
His post was echoed on his official Instagram account, where he received a host of messages from his teammates past and present.
Villa star Leon Bailey said, “Just the beginning my bro”, while former Villan Carney Chukwuemeka commented “Proud of you”, joined by the likes of Aaron Ramsey, Tim Iroegbunam, Lucas Digne and Omari Kellyman in congratulating the youngster.
Kaine Kesler-Hayden’s debut could be the start of something special
While the 21-year-old wasn’t given the time to make an impact in the 2-0 win over Wolves, his inclusion in the fixture hinted at a sign of things to come.
Emery has been vocal about his admiration for the 21-year-old before, highlighted by recalling him from his loan spell at Plymouth Argyle back in January.
To hand the 2002-born gem his Premier League debut now is an interesting prospect for the right-back, at a time when there is little cover behind Konsa due to Matty Cash’s hamstring injury.
With games coming thick and fast during Cash’s expected three-week absence, Kesler-Hayden could be handed the chance to secure more minutes with the first team before the end of the season.
For now, everyone at Villa will be delighted to see the academy graduate earn his Premier League debut on a memorable occasion for the 21-year-old on derby day.
