Aston Villa academy chief Bryan Jones says their imminent capture of Arsenal U16 captain Samir Carruthers is great testimony to the club's reputation for backing it's young players.

Jones said: "I think what swung it for us was two things. Firstly, the facilities which are a great pulling factor these days.

"And the family are also aware that young players are given a chance by Martin (O'Neill) if they are good enough.

"I think that won it for us really."