Nathan Baker praises Ron Vlaar leadership

Aston Villa defender Nathan Baker has revealed that his game has improved since playing alongside club captain Ron Vlaar.

Baker has established himself as a regular part of Villa's defence this season, making 23 appearances in all competitions, and the academy graduate has admitted that a regular partnership with an experienced international has been a "big help".

The 22-year-old told the club's official website: "Playing alongside Ron is a big help. He's a full international and he helps me, both in training and in games.

"He's a leader, a great skipper, an excellent defender and I feel like I'm learning all the time alongside him in the back four."

Both players starred in the club's 1-0 victory over Premier League leaders Chelsea last weekend.