Aston Villa's 17 year-old striker Nathan Delfouneso has welcomed the Premiership's ruling to expand the bench to seven.

Despite criticism from England chiefs Stuart Pearce and Sir Trevor Brooking, Delfouneso told the Express & Star: "The fact there are seven subs in Premier League matches next season won't do me any harm. Young players across the country have two extra chances to get into the squad now.

"I travelled with the squad last season but just didn't get into the bench. Now I hope I've got a better chance.

"I know the gaffer wants to bring in more players yet but I've got to be confident in my own ability. I can do enough to get into the squad and then push on from there."