The Perth-born 22-year-old, who remains uncapped for the Socceroos, has impressed McLeish during his run in the side with his commitment and hard work in midfield.

However, McLeish told The Times he didn't want to demand too much from Herd, who only  previously managed seven appearances for the Villans having joined the club as a teenager in 2005.

"Guys like Chris Herd and Barry Bannan are getting a crash course in the Premier League," McLeish said.

"To rely on these kids for the whole season is putting a lot of pressure on them.

“(Herd) has certainly shown the mental toughness to handle it. He's developing but let's not put too much pressure on him. Sometimes he will have to get a rest. That's the challenge that's ahead of us."