Ciaran Clark

Classy and composed defender Ciaran Clark has proved on numerous occasions he is a first team star in the making.

The reserves skipper has led by example for the club's highly successful second string.

Another product of Villa's renowned academy system, Clark was also proud to lead out England on many occasions in the under-19 ranks.

He successfully made the step up to first team level with a classy performance on his Villa debut in a 2-0 victory over Fulham in August 2009.

Clark remained with the first team for most of the campaign, making the matchday squad on many occasions.

His second senior appearance came as a substitute in the FA Cup fourth round against Brighton & Hove Albion.

While Clark is now considered a fully-fledged first team squad member, he hasn't shirked his reserve team responsibilities.

He was regularly among the goals for the second string last term, including a brace against a strong Chelsea team and a memorable headed strike in the national play-off final against Manchester United.