32. Nathan Baker

Position: Centre Back / Left Back Date of Birth: 23rd April 1991 Place of Birth: Worcester, England Caps: 0* Height: 191cm

Nathan Baker joined Villa as a 13 year old in 2004. He made his debut season for the Academy side in 2007, where he formed a formidable partnership with Ciaran Clark. Villa finished as National Champions after being Manchester City in the final that season. He made 23 appearances for the Academy side and scored 1 goal during his first season. He also made 7 appearances for the reserve side, and scored 2 goals.

During pre-season 2008, Baker travelled with the first team to Switzerland and took part in both fixture against FC Wil and FC Zurich. He made the bench for the UEFA Cup Qualifying games against Odense Boldklub and Hafnarfjaoar.

He joined League 2 side Lincoln City on loan in October 2009, joining fellow Villa defender Eric Lichaj. He impressed during his month loan at the Imps and extended his deal until the end of the season. He went on to make 18 league games for Lincoln, after making his debut against Torquay United at Sincil Bank.

Nathan was banned from the League Cup final in February 2010 after he attempted to sell tickets on Facebook for £200 each. He later admitted to regretting his actions.

He made his first team debut against Wigan in January 2011. In his second start for the club, he made an assist and was also sent off after a dangerous challenge in the FA Cup Fourth Round tie against Blackburn Rovers. He made his second league start for Villa against Blackburn, for the second time against the Rovers he failed to finish the match as this time he was taken off injured.

Nathan signed a new 3 year deal at Villa Park in June 2011.

Honours:
National Youth Academy Champions 07/08 (Aston Villa)

(*-as of 1st May 2011)