Sam Wallace: Aston Villa's Matt Lowton proves it's worth scouting in lower leagues

Talking Football

Matt Lowton celebrates after scoring a wonder goal for Aston Villa against Stoke (GETTY IMAGES)

Matt Lowton is one of those players who came to the Premier League along what has become, in recent times, a less well-travelled route.

He played in Sheffield United’s academy, appears to have been ignored at junior level for England, including the Under-21s, and, having been signed by Aston Villa in the summer, will complete his first Premier League season before he turns 24 in June.

Lowton has, famously, played every minute of every league game this season for Villa and on Saturday scored a fabulous goal against Stoke City. He is proof that with good scouting of the Football League, and a bit of faith, good players are out there.