Ridgewell, making only his fourth appearance in the Villa starting line-up, showed no fear in taking on England international pair James Beattie and Kevin Phillips.

He also had a hand in the opening goal, winning a penalty which was converted by Juan Pablo Angel.

Ridgewell’s impressive performance at St Mary’s Stadium prompted Sun reporter Vikki Orvice to describe him as "mature beyond his 19 years".

Ridgewell progressed through the youth system at West Ham before joining Villa on a free transfer in 2001.

The footballing centre-back was a member of the Villa side that won the FA Youth Cup against Everton two years ago, marking Wayne Rooney out of the game.

After a spell on loan at Bournemouth, Ridgewell made his senior debut for Villa in the FA Cup against Blackburn in January of last year.

He was a regular in the England Under-19 side and played in the Under-19 European Championships last summer. Ridgewell’s continued progress this season saw him receive a call-up to the Under-21 squad.