Aston Villa defender Ciaran Clark has praised new signing Micah Richards's instant impact at the club.

Richards, 26, recently joined the Villans on a four-year deal from former Premier League champions Manchester City.

Clark has credited the full-back with giving the whole squad a lift during their pre-season training camp in Portugal.

"He has given the place a lift. He has worked really hard in training since he's been here. He looks really hungry to do well here. He's been very impressive. He has knuckled down," Clark told the club's official website.

"His quality on the pitch is there for all to see but he's an absolutely top lad too. Whenever you see him, he's got that big beaming smile. He is just so positive - a really happy guy. I am sure that smile will grow even bigger when we win games next season."

Aston Villa are in pre-season action later today against Fulham at Craven Cottage.