Championship side Bristol City are among several clubs set to watch former Aston Villa striker Brad Young in a Champions League qualifier on Tuesday, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.
The New Saints are set to take on Montenegrin side FK Decic in the first of their two-legged Champions League first qualifying round match on Tuesday night, a game in which the striker will be hoping to have a significant impact in.
The 21-year-old Englishman joined Welsh Premier League champions The New Saints (TNS) in September 2023. He’d have a standout first season in Wales, scoring 32 goals in all competitions in what was a record-breaking campaign for the Welsh outfit. Young finished top scorer in the Cymru Premier League and his impressive performances have earned him some interest from England’s second division. One of those sides who are expecting to be in attendance on Tuesday night are Bristol City, who will be looking to improve on their midtable finish going into the new season.
Despite currently playing in Wales, Young has spent the lion’s share of his career in England. He’d be a part of both the West Bromwich Albion and then Aston Villa academy but was never handed a senior appearance. Instead, it would be out on loan where he’d get an initial taste for the senior game. However spells at both Carlisle United and then Scottish side Ayr United didn’t really work out and questions were raised about his ability as a result.
This would lead to him being released by Villa in the summer of 2023 however he has revitalised his career since then with The New Saints. If able to impress with multiple clubs in attendance, don’t be surprised to see him potentially earn a move back to the EFL.
Writer’s view
A Championship move for Young has the potential to be beneficial for all parties involved. Although at a lower level, scoring 32 goals in all competitions is certainly an impressive goal output for any striker. Bristol City will be looking to add firepower upfront in the summer window amid the departure of Austrian international Andreas Weimann.
The Reds have already added to the attacking ranks, bringing in French international Fally Maylulu from Rapid Vienna, so it seems like Manning is planning for the future and bringing in a youthful core. Adding a striker, who is young, yet has some experience in the senior ranks could prove favourable for Bristol City. Although the gamble might not pay off immediately and his previous EFL stint is forgotten, Young could have an impact and at 21, he still retains potential.
