Tom Cleverley has lavished praise on Aston Villa teammate Fabian Delph.
Cleverley, who is on loan from Manchester United, is enjoying training and playing alongside 25-year old midfielder Delph who is continuing to become a key figure at Villa Park.
"Fabian is a fantastic athlete," Cleverley said. "He's good on the ball. He's got everything it takes in his game to be a top, top midfielder. But what impresses me more than all that skill and quality is his attitude.
"He is a top, top pro. He works tremendously hard. He's always first in the door - and the last to leave.
"It doesn't shock me in the slightest to see someone with his mentality getting the rewards. It's no surprise. It's a life lesson really - about working hard and striving to be the best you can be.
"He can definitely inspire the young lads coming through. He's a real example for anyone wanting a role model in football.
"They should look at how hard he grafts every day and think 'that's what you need to do to be a professional footballer'. I have the greatest respect for him."
