Ireland defender Ciaran Clark commits to Villa

Ciaran Clark has signed a new five-year contract with Aston Villa, the Premier League club have announced.

The 25-year-old defender, who has 11 caps for the Republic of Ireland, ascended through Villa’s youth-team ranks to become a key member of the first team.

He said on the club’s official website: “I’m absolutely thrilled to sign a new contract. I’ve been at Aston Villa since I was a kid and I want to continue to play for this fantastic football club.

“Everyone is looking forward to the new season and I’m delighted to be going into the opening game on Saturday knowing my long-term future has been sorted.”

CLARK SIGNS: @C_Clark_6 pens new Villa deal. Full story here: http://t.co/WScYUsFXGi #AVFC pic.twitter.com/eTR0OwfWlJ

— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) August 5, 2015

Manager Tim Sherwood said: “It’s great news.

“Ciaran wears his heart on his sleeve. You know what you’re going to get from Ciaran – he gives everything for the cause and that’s all you can ask for as a manager.

“He was unfortunate with injuries last season but he looks sharp now and we want to keep him fit.

“We’re pleased to have him here for a longer time.”