Aston Villa can confirm that Jonathan Hogg will play for Portsmouth on loan to the end of the season.The 22-year-old midfield player recently extended his contract at Villa to June 2013 and made his Barclays Premier League debut in the thrilling 2-2 draw against Manchester United in November 2010 at Villa Park.Manager Gerard Houllier said: "Jonathan has competed very well in the games he has played this season and this loan move will greatly assist in his career development."Hogg's spell at Portsmouth will undoubtedly form the next part of his development.It's been quite some turnaround for Hogg, who has overcome two major knee injuries to force his way back into action.The midfield terrier had to fly out to the USA on more than one occasion to see expert surgeon Dr Richard Steadman as he battled to overcome the frustrating career setback.He spent 11 months out of the game after suffering the cruciate ligament heartbreak against Tottenham in a March 2008 reserve game.He then impressed in the following pre-season before being injured again with the same knee issue, sustained this time in an accidental training ground collision with right-back Luke Young.He was then absent for a further five months before battling back to full fitness again.However, the youngster took his chance in the absence of experienced central stars like Nigel Reo-Coker and Stiliyan Petrov earlier this season.He impressed the claret and blue faithful with his all-action displays and enthusiasm to get around the pitch and hunt down possession.Following a confident and assured performance on his Barclays Premier League debut against Manchester United, the 22-year-old went on to start and sparkle in the top-flight against Blackburn, Liverpool, West Brom and Tottenham as well as the Carling Cup clash with Blues.Now he'll be looking to impress on the south-coast at Fratton Park.
Good move.We've got Makoun, Petrov, Reo Coker, Bannan and shortly, Delph for central midfield.Will do his development good to get a few games with them, better than the reserves.
Shame - i liked what i saw of him but the problem with so many good kids is that they cant all play - considering that most of our squad are coming up to their age peak its not as there will be a multitude of places available - especially in CM now Makoun is here and Delph getting fitter
I agree, With Makoun now and Delph, NRC, Sidwell, Bannan, Unless some leave then he may struggle
Quote from: Phil from the upper holte on January 25, 2011, 03:47:08 PMI agree, With Makoun now and Delph, NRC, Sidwell, Bannan, Unless some leave then he may struggleThink he might be ahead of Sidwell in the pecking order.