Aston Villa winger hails Pires

Pires joined Villa on a free transfer last November and Albrighton believes the veteran has been good influence on the club’s younger players.

“He (Pires) is a big influence on the younger players,” explained Albrighton.

“He passes on a lot of tips. He helps the young boys out, in fact, not just the young boys but the whole squad.

“The rest of the lads appreciate what he has done in the game.

“If he is telling you something, it is definitely something to take on board.”

Albrighton added: “He (Pires) shows touches in training that make you sit back and think ‘that is why he was so good’.

“Against Blackburn, he did it again on the Premier League stage. He has done very well for us.”