Aston Villa defender Tyrone Mings has received praise from ex-manager Mick McCarthy.

Mings is having an up and down season at Villa this season, as the team struggles defensively.

However, he received huge words of encouragement from current Blackpool boss McCarthy, who gave Mings his debut at Ipswich Town.

He told The Beautiful Game Podcast: “Tyrone is a lovely young man and an intelligent lad.

“He is a proper warrior, an aggressive defender, and a great guy to have around.

“I still get messages from him and I always wish him good luck. I have great time for Tyrone and I sincerely hope things get better for him."

He added: “I don't think Tyrone is egotistical. He is a bit like I was, he wanted to leave a bit on somebody and win every ball.

“Sometimes he can be overcommitted, but there is no one stronger than Tyrone. I love Ty and I hope the new manager (Unai Emery) helps him with any issues he has had and helps him get back on track because he is an asset for any club to have."