Aston Villa defender Ciaran Clarke says the return to fitness of Fabian Delph is a huge boost.

Delph played for 45 minutes against West Brom in the weekend derby defeat.

"Fabian has been a miss. Now he's back involved again, I am confident he will be back to his best - the form he showed before he got injured," Clarke told Villa's website.

"He's obviously come back earlier than expected. And, of course, it's a big boost to us.

"He's been brilliant in training since he's been back. He's been very impressive. That's such a positive for us particularly with the injuries and suspensions we have.

"He's just so comfortable on the ball. He can create things and make things happen. Having him back is a massive boost.

"The lads trust him 100% on the pitch."