Aston Villa: Why Sidwell backs Shorey to prove himself as Premier League player

Nov 28 2009 by Mathew Kendrick, Birmingham Mail

STEVE Sidwell is backing Nicky Shorey to prove himself as a Premier League player – after hailing him as one of Villa’s best early-season performers.

Shorey has joined Championship club Nottingham Forest on a month’s loan after losing his place in Martin O’Neill’s starting line-up to Stephen Warnock.

But Sidwell, who became close friends with Shorey in their Reading days, believes the diminutive defender has the quality to continue in the top flight.

“If you looked at him earlier this year he was absolutely fantastic,” Sidwell said. “He was one of our best players earlier in the season.

“On the ball you can see how good he is. Technically he’s one of the best footballers at the club. He’s very calm, he can see a pass, he’s got great delivery and a great left foot. This year he’s started to express that.”

Sidwell admits that Shorey was unfortunate to lose his place to Warnock in September following the former Blackburn left-back’s arrival during the transfer window.

But the flame-haired midfielder is convinced Shorey has the determination to win his place back or to put himself in the shop window for a permanent transfer.

“He’s unlucky that the manager has bought a new left-back but Nicky believes in himself and in his own ability and I’m sure as soon as he gets another chance he’ll take it,” said Sidwell.

“He’s got the quality to force his way back in here and if not he can put himself in the spotlight for other clubs by continue to impress when he can. He’s proved that even if he’s not going to play here then he can definitely do a job for another Premier League club.”