Aaron Ramsey of Burnley is hoping that his loan stints in the Championship will prepare him for his first experience playing regularly in the Premier League.
The 20-year-old played in the second tier twice last season, making 20 appearances for Norwich City in the first term and then scoring five goals in as many games for Middlesbrough.
The offensive midfielder had played just one cameo for Aston Villa before his summer transfer to Turf Moor, which was in a Carabao Cup match against Barrow in August 2021.
Ramsey told Clarets+ that playing Under-21s football when you’re young is very different from playing men’s football.
“I didn’t play too much and then I was thrown into that environment, where you have to adapt to playing week in, week out, which is quite demanding. But when you’re a youngster you just have to take it in your stride.
“It’s really important playing games, having a good coach and being in the right environment to get the best out of yourself.”
Ramsey was part of the Boro side that lost 2-1 to Vincent Kompany’s men in May, the victory that sealed Burnley’s promotion back to the Premier League.
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Reflecting on his memories of that unforgettable night, Ramsey added: “I remember when they sealed promotion I was just standing there for 10-15 minutes just imagining how that could feel.
“I obviously didn’t know at the time I would be coming here on a permanent but it looked amazing and I can imagine for the fans, the whole club and especially the players how great it was.
“To become champions and the way they did it was amazing, so credit to all the players.”
