Aston Villa loan signing Axel Tuanzebe says his move is part of a development plan mapped out for him by Manchester United.
The young centre-back made just eight appearance for the Reds before heading to Villa Park in search of first-team opportunities for the remainder of the season. His short-term aim is to help Villa win promotion back to the Premier League.
But he wants to use his time in the Midlands to show United what he is capable of.
Tuanzebe told the Express & Star: “After getting the promotion and my medal, I want to go back to United and be a real contender for my place.
“I believe it is my home. I want to be playing there for ten to 15 years. That is my motivation.
“This is my chance to demonstrate what I can do on the pitch.
“If I can break into the team [at Villa], I can show I am a man, who can play men's football and do well.
“I want to show the qualities I know I have got, to prove I can do it.
“From the back of last season when I played a few Premier League games, I feel like I am ready for the next stage.
“It is not like I am a young boy anymore, looking to please. I am here to fight, here to play and help the team win promotion."
Tuanzebe believes the presence of former Chelsea veteran John Terry at Villa Park can aid his progress.
“That's definitely intriguing, having such a legend in the team," he said.
“If you watch him carefully, he's never been the quickest. But for some reason he is always in the right position.
“It shouldn't add up but he is smart, has studied the game, where to be at the right time. Having someone like that to learn off, adding those qualities into my game. It can elevate me."
Source: tribalfootball.com