Joe Cole has said that Jack Grealish will be a "massive player" in the future of Aston Villa.

The 20-year-old has established himself in the first team under Tim Sherwood after impressing towards the end of the last season, and has gone from strength to strength in the current campaign.

Cole has backed Grealish to live up to his potential and become the player Villa build their side around for the long-term future.

He told BBC Sport: "The gaffer loves him. He has gone beyond potential and is an important cog in the wheel at Villa.

"When you step into that world of Premier League football the expectancy levels are massive and someone with the ability levels of Jack, the expectancy levels go up so you need to have the mentality to cope.

"It is important that the club build the team around him. I think they have the perfect gaffer for him. He is going to be a massive player for Villa over the future."

Cole recently signed for Coventry City on loan for 35 days.