Delph to get new deal

Cape Town - Aston Villa are desperate to ward off interest in rising star Fabian Delph and are set to offer the midfielder a bumper new deal.

Sky Sports report that Aston Villa boss Paul Lambert wants to secure Delph's long term future at the club.

"I didn't see his first appearance against Norway because I was away watching a game myself," said the Villa boss.

"But I saw his full debut against Switzerland and I thought he grew into the game and was excellent. As the game went on he was great.

"If you perform like that, then hopefully when the next squad is announced he'll be back in it again.

"He's been playing well for me for the last few years, so it's not something that has surprised me. I've always said that he wouldn't let anybody down and I'm delighted for him for the way he played."

Delph was a target for Manchester United some seasons ago and has been instrumental in Aston Villa's tremendous start to the season.

Aston Villa are now in second place, following a shock 1-0 away win at Liverpool, just two points behind Chelsea.

"There a few players who are going to be out of contract, to be honest, and we'll try to get around to talking to them. I spoke to Fabian early doors and we'll see how it goes.

"We've just got a new chief executive in (Tom Fox) which I'm certain will help. I'm pretty sure we'll sit down with Fabian. I'm not worried. When players get into the last year of their contract, it is what it is.

"It's not any great issue. Conversations will go on. I met Tom the other day, he's a really good guy and I'm pretty sure things will start to happen pretty soon."