Aston Villa news: Hutton reveals Barry dazzling Dean Smith

The centre-forward joined Villa in January from Barcelona, just six months after leaving West Brom for the Catalan giants.

Hutton admits he knows for a fact that Smith is excited by the youngster’s abilities and suggests that the increased number of substitutes allowed could see him play for the first team before the season is out.

Hutton told Football Insider: “He’s got huge potential – Barcelona doesn’t take someone over there and them not be a good player.

“I think all the fans will be looking at him desperate to have a look and see what he’s actually capable of – he’s done really well in the reserve team so far, scored a few goals and stuff.

“The five-sub rule suits somebody like Louie Barry, who might not have got on the pitch if this hadn’t happen, there’s an opportunity to get in a squad and maybe get a little cameo role and show people what what you’re made of.

“He’s definitely an exciting player and is one for the future. I know Dean Smith sees a lot in him and definitely one he’s looking to bring into the first team in the coming seasons.” 

Barry is an England under-17 international, with two goals under his belt for the Young Lions, and was prolific for the under-15s and under-16s.

Smith started 22-year-old Keinan Davis up front for Villa’s first game back from the lockdown, with January signing Aly Samatta coming on as a second-half substitute.