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Watch: ‘Xavi’ Doyle-Hayes Shines In Playoff Semi-Final

Xavi Jake Doyle-Hayes

Jake Doyle-Hayes played a prominent role during Cheltenham Town’s 2-0 victory over Northampton, the first a two legged League Two Playoff.

Villa’s on loan midfielder grabbed an assist, delivering an excellent corner for the opener to be headed home by Charlie Raglan.

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DOYLE-HAYES

The 21 year old former Irish under-21 international has been highly regarded at Villa from a young age and his development continues to be positive whilst out on loan.

A composed midfielder, Doyle-Hayes put in another compelling display as Cheltenham took a big step towards promotion from League 2.  This comes off the back of a consistent full season long loan in which his loan side were unfortunate not to go up automatically.

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The prospect of any renewed deal at Villa Park does however appear unclear.

Despite having come to the attention of Villa supporters courtesy of three first team appearances in the League Cup, Doyle-Hayes is another peripheral face whose future is uncertain.  His current contract in fact expires on June 30th.

The former Villa Academy captain penned a three year deal back in 2017 when Steve Bruce was at the helm.  Since then his opportunities have been limited by relentless purchasing of midfielders by Villa and suffering injury whilst on loan at Cambridge last term.

Whilst the level Doyle-Hayes is currently playing at is, with respect, far from the Premier League, he has become highly regarded for his loan club and also within the division.

Indeed, he has even been given the nickname ‘Xavi’, which is quite something to live up to.

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Speaking in March 2020, Doyle-Hayes stated his desire to secure a new deal under Dean Smith:

My aim is to earn a new contract at Villa.

Getting into the first-team there has always been what I’ve worked towards and that hasn’t changed.

I’ve gotten good experience out on loan so hopefully that’ll benefit me.

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