Aston Villa boss Paul Lambert feels they have something special in Jores Okore.

The likeable 22-year-old formed an impressive partnership with Ciaran Clark against the Saints, Burnley, Leicester and West Brom.

He then made up a rock-solid three-man wall - including Ron Vlaar - against Man Utd and impressed greatly in the 1-1 draw.

Lambert has been thrilled with the awesome ascent of Okore.

He told Villa's website: "Jores is getting better and better. He's only 22-years-old.

"He is outstanding. He was great.

"He has come in and his first game was against Southampton after 14 months out. Look at the way he played that night.

"Him and Clark have been excellent. His career could go far."