Aston Villa haven't given up on securing Carney Chukwuemeka to a new contract.
Birmingham Live says contract discussions with Villa are ongoing, but Chukwuemeka has been away from the first-team in the crucial weeks leading up to the new campaign as Villa tour Australia.
"Carney is yet to sign a contract offer that has been in place for some time now," Gerrard told Villa TV. "I've decided the best thing for him would be to continue his training programme back at Bodymoor."
Gerrard's decision to leave Chukwuemeka out of the pre-season tour comes after he previously insisted that the 18-year-old is playing at the right club to continue his rapid development as a Premier League midfielder.
"We want him to stay here long-term. We believe this is the best place for Carney," Villa boss Gerrard said back in May. "I hope that situation progresses in a positive way."
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