Smith watches returning Mitch Clark during U23’s clash

Birmingham Live report that Aston Villa manager Dean Smith was in attendance when Villa U23’s lost to Stoke City U23’s.

The manager had close eyes on Mitch Clark who managed to make a 45-minute appearance during the game.

Clark, who is currently returning from a hamstring injury has impressed since being on loan at Port Vale. Clark, however, was able to feature for the U23’s thanks to a clause inserted into the deal that took him Vale over the summer.

An Aston Villa spokesman stated:

Players on loan can play for their parent club in non first-team games and the Potters clash gave Clark the perfect opportunity to up his levels ahead of the festive period for Port Vale.

The young Welshman is expected to return to first-team action for Port Vale over the Christmas period but could be recalled in January if Dean Smith wants to activate the contract clause.

He has impressed out on loan and it’s clear his performances are not going unnoticed.