Aston Villa captain Ron Vlaar says Christian Benteke deserved to be named Young Player of the Year.

According to unconfirmed whispers from the Professional Footballers' Association awards' dinner, the Belgium international was beaten only by Gareth Bale for the young player prize.

Vlaar said it was a shame but added his own voice to those who had backed the 22-year-old's claims.

"He's really important for our team, he's only 22.

"I don't think there are young players who have done more than him this season. He has been very important and he will be important again in these last couple of games for us. That's for sure because all the defenders are always busy with him."