Aston Villa winger Marc Albrighton is backing Eric Lichaj to build on last season's impressive campaign.

The USA international fullback forced his way into the first team reckoning last term.

Albrighton told Villa's website: "He's a top footballer. I have said this ever since he came to the club, all the way through the youth, reserves and now the seniors.

"He's versatile. He can right-back, left-back, centre-back, he can play centre midfield, right midfield, left midfield. He can play anywhere.

"He's done a great job wherever he's been put. I remember him taking his chance against Tottenham and he dealt with Gareth Bale superbly two seasons ago and then he had a tough time against Manchester City and was taken out of the team. That was unlucky for him.

"That set him back but last season whenever he came in, which he did towards the back end of the season, he did a great job for the side.

"Hopefully he can push on now and go from strength to strength this season."