Former Bolton midfielder Fabrice Muamba believes Jack Grealish needs someone to hold his hand rather than sit him in the naughty corner.

The 20-year-old attacking midfielder has been dropped for this weekend's Premier League clash with Watford after being seen partying hours after he was involved in Villa's 4-0 loss to Everton last weekend.

Grealish has now been the subject of interest in a number of off-field incidents during his short career but Muamba feels there needs to be more guidance for the easily distracted youngster.

"It is important that, rather than putting him out there, somebody takes him to one side and has a conversation," he told talkSPORT's 'Drivetime'.

"A one-to-one conversation where someone says, 'listen, this is arguably the best game you can ever play in your life, enjoy it, but be mindful of who you are and who you represent because it only takes one picture of you on a night out and it can be blown out of proportion'.

"Let's give the guy a chance and speak to him the best way you can. Hopefully, Villa will have the best person available in the club to sit down with him rather than making sure it is a big commotion.

"Does he have a support system? He is not even 21 yet. As a footballer, you are being monitored 24-7, that is just how it is, and you have to be mindful who you surround yourself with."