The Perth-born 22-year-old made just his second ever Premier League start, taking the place of QPR-bound Luke Young at full-back for Villa.

Herd put in an impressive full shift where he almost scored a second-half winner with a powerful header.

The Australian's performance drew praise from Villa boss Alex McLeish and also earned him the man-of-the-match award.

“I'm over the moon really,” Herd, who made seven first-team appearances last season, told AVTV after the game.

“I'm really pleased to be given a chance here at Villa Park in front of these great fans, great club. Unfortunately we didn't get the three points for the fans, but hopefully a point is acceptable."

He added: "I was happy with my performance and I think all the lads put in a good shift too.

"Despite not getting the win, it's always great to get the clean sheet. As a defender that's your job. Defending strongly is key and anything else is a bonus."

As for a regular run, Herd added: "I am just going to concentrate on my game and just see what happens. I have played centre midfield and obviously with the previous gaffer he saw me as a right-back.

"I just want to keep improving wherever I play and learning from the players around me and get more experience. I'd love to be involved in every game."

McLeish had told reporters after the game: "Chris had a really good game. He got up the line, had headers at set-pieces and he can look in the mirror and be proud of his performance.

"He has given me a problem. That is all I can ask. We are a bit short on experienced players with Luke Young leaving. That is the only little niggle for me but again it's another great performance from a kid from the academy."