Blackburn Rovers sign Aston Villa defender Ben Chrisene on loan
Ben Chisene Credit: None
Blackburn Rovers have confirmed the loan signing of left-back Ben Chrisene from Aston Villa for the remainder of the 2023-24 season.
This marks the club's second signing of the day, following the acquisition of Brighton midfielder Yasin Ayari.
Chrisene, who began his career at Exeter City and set the record as the club’s youngest ever player in 2019, has joined Blackburn Rovers from the Premier League club.
After making his mark with Exeter, Chrisene moved to Aston Villa, where he debuted against Liverpool in an FA Cup tie in January 2021.
Following his debut, he quickly signed his first professional contract and achieved a memorable highlight by scoring in the FA Youth Cup final win against Liverpool.
The defender's loan spell at Kilmarnock saw him make 16 appearances before an injury shortened his season.
Gregg Broughton, Rovers’ Director of Football, shared his enthusiasm for the new signing.
“We are really happy to make Ben our second signing of the January transfer window," said Broughton.
He highlighted Chrisene's early debut and subsequent development.
"Ben made his first team debut for Exeter at the age of 15, before earning his move to Aston Villa and has featured for England throughout the age groups," he added.
Broughton is confident in the abilities Chrisene will bring to the team.
"He will bring additional pace and physicality to our backline, and he is very comfortable in possession," stated Broughton.
The Rovers executive also praised Chrisene's recent progress and his decision to join the team.
"Ben has spent the first half of this season training with Aston Villa’s first team squad and we are delighted that he has chosen Blackburn Rovers to continue his development,” concluded Broughton.
