Aston Villa forward Jordan Ayew has backed his teammate Jordan Amavi to return stronger from his season-ending injury.

The 21-year-old left-back suffered a serious knee injury while playing for the France U21 team last month and although it is a massive blow to both the player and the club, Ayew expects the youngster will return to become an even better player.

Ayew told Aston Villa's official website: "It was very sad for him to get the injury - and sad for all of us because we are one big family.

"To lose him was terrible because of what he's now got to go through and because he was undoubtedly one of the best players in our team - he's an excellent left-back.

"It's sad for him and his family and all of us because we are his close friends.

"I know he has a good mentality and I am sure he will come back stronger. I have no doubts about this.

"He is keeping positive. He has his spirits high. I knew him before he came to Villa. Where he comes from in France, they are strong people. He is too.

"He's a fine player. He has the potential to be one of the best left-backs in the world. He has the potential but, as always in life, he has to work very hard to get to that level.

"But he has a big future. I have no doubt he will come back stronger. I am not worried about Jordan - not one bit.

"He's a young boy. He's only 21. People say it's hard for a young player to get an injury like that but I think it's better to have it when you're 21 rather than 31.

"He will be even better next season, in my opinion."