Leeds United boss Simon Grayson has given his backing to Fabian Delph's move to Aston Villa.

"He is excited," Grayson told leedsunited.com. "When I told him what had been agreed he had a smile on his face.

"That's not to say he was delighted to be leaving, he's got this club at his heart, but as a footballer he wants to test himself at the highest level.

"He's got the talent to do that and he's got the move that he wants, but he'll obviously leave a big part of his heart at this football club."

Grayson played under Villa boss Martin O'Neill at Leicester City and believes that Delph is playing under the right manager to further develop as a player.

"I think it's the right move for him," added Grayson. "Martin O'Neill is a fantastic manager and coach, and he gives young players an opportunity.

"He has players capable of playing at the highest level and it's a massive opportunity for Fab."