Villa set to unleash the beast

Last updated : 05 July 2006 By Norris Winter

The 19-year-old, known as 'The Beast', has broken through to his country's Under-21 squad after impressing in Villa's youth and reserve teams and goalkeeper coach Eric Steele says the youngster needs to step things up and be tested at a higher level. "This year is a big year for Robert," he said. "He can't play for the Under-18s, he can only play for the reserves or we will probably look at loan situations to get him first-team experience elsewhere. We've had enough people on the phone. Physically he has proved he can handle it and mentally he has proved he is up to it."