Aston Villa midfielder Barry Bannan admits his public profile has increased this season.

Bannan now finds himself being stopped in the street regularly by fans.

"It has changed a lot this season," Bannan told the Sunday Mercury. "Last season there was obviously a few that would have noticed, but now there's a lot more.

"It's strange if you're out with your girlfriend having a meal. You see people whispering stuff. It's a bit strange, but it's brilliant.

"People have been good. They haven't stopped me during my meal when I've been eating! I still wouldn't say I get stopped that regularly for my autograph."