NATHAN Baker has set his sights on becoming an established force at Aston Villa.

The 19-year-old, who can play left-back or centre-half, has had an eventful start to his Villa Park career with his Premier League debut against Wigan followed by a red card in the FA Cup victory over Blackburn.

Having waited more than 11 years for his first-team chance — he joined the club when he was just eight — the subsequent three-match ban has brought a temporary halt to his progress.

But the Worcester-born talent is hoping there will be many more appearances to come in claret and blue under manager Gerard Houiller.

The 6ft 3ins defender said: “I have been here since I was eight so getting my debut is what I have been working and training for all my life. I feel over the moon.

“I didn’t get much of a look in under the old manager (Martin O’Neill) but I have now made my debut.

“I want to stay around the squad and if not be their first choice left-back, then maybe be back-up.

“They didn’t bring anyone in during the transfer window so that’s good for me. I want to keep playing in the Premier League and go on to England as well.”

Baker, who has represented his country at under 19s level and was part of the under 20s squad against France last night, added: “I started off as a centre-half because of my height.

“Villa had a few centre-halves so they transformed me into a left-back and I have enjoyed it and it gives me a chance to get forward.

“The manager is talkative, let’s you know what he wants from you and let’s you get on with it.”

A former Christopher Whitehead School pupil, Baker was spotted playing for Dines Green Devils as a youngster and was recruited into Villa’s youth structure.

Having earned a professional contract, he was loaned to League Two Lin-coln City last season to get experience.

During his stay at Sincil Bank, the teenager made 17 appearances as the Imps successfully battled against relegation.

He said: “It was beneficial because it gets you the experience of playing competitive football so it definitely helped, especially with the crowd as having a bit of vocal support is good as well.”

Returning to Villa, who attract around 10-times Lincoln’s gates, Baker was handed his first-team bow in the 2-1 victory at Wigan last month.

He then played a part in two of the goals in the 3-1 FA Cup fourth round win over Blackburn before getting his marching orders after 62 minutes.

It has been a quick learning curve but Baker admits having experienced players around him has helped, especially on his debut.

He said: “I had mixed emotions. I was nervous because it was my first Premier League game but after the first five minutes I settled down and I wanted more.

“I had Gabby Agbonlahor in front of me on the left and Richard Dunne beside me. They told me what to do and settled me down. Having them around me was a lot easier.”