30. Eric Lichaj
Position: Right Back Date of Birth: 17th November 1988 Place of Birth: Illinois, USA Caps: 8* Height: 180cm
The American played on 4 games at Chicago Fire before signing for Villa in 2008. As Eric has Polish parents and holds a Polish passport a work permit is not necessary.
During his first season in England, he played in all but 2 of Villa’s reserve team fixtures. He was in the squad which won the pre-season tournament the Peace Cup in 2009. Despite showing glimpses of his ability during this tournament his was later loaned out to Lincoln City in League 2 in order to gain first team experience. He made 6 appearances for Lincoln during his time on loan.
Later in the season he was sent out on loan again, this time to League 1 side Leyton Orient. He made 9 appearances and scored 1 goal during his time in League 1. His first professional goal was against Stockport County in April 2010.
After returning to Villa Park, Eric scored his first Villa goal in a friendly against Peterborough United in July 2010. As with many of the current Villa youngsters, he made his competitive debut in the 1-1 draw away to Rapid Vienna in the Europa League qualifying round in August 2010. His Premier League debut came against Blackpool at Villa Park in November of that year.
His first start came in 2-1 victory over local rivals West Bromwich Albion. He also received a lot of praise after keeping Gareth Bale quiet when he started against Tottenham Hotspur that same season. He made 5 league appearances for Villa that season.
Lichaj, pronounced ‘Lee-High’, joined Yorkshire club Leeds United in February 2011 on loan. He impressed manager Simon Grayson during his 16 league appearances at Elland Road. He was equally as comfortable at right back or left back when required due to injuries. Grayson has stated he would be interested in resigning Lichaj on loan again if he isn’t in Alex McLeish’s first team plans.
Honours;
Premier Reserve League Winner 08/09 (Aston Villa)
Peace Cup Winner 2009 (Aston Villa)
(*-as of 1st May 2011)
