Grealish takes the positives from Sherwood

ASTON VILLA forward Jack Grealish is hoping to become the latest talented youngster to be inspired by Tim Sherwood.

The 19- year- old was handed a fi rst senior start in the 3- 3 draw with QPR on Tuesday by the man that oversaw the development of Harry Kane and Ryan Mason while youth- team boss at Tottenham.

And it is the optimism that new Villa manager Sherwood brings that helps young players emerge, according to Grealish.

“Tim Sherwood gives every player a huge boost of confi dence,” said Grealish, above. “I thought I was OK but I feel I can contribute towards the end of the season and play better.

“The positivity around the training ground is brilliant for the gaffer and brilliant for us. It really helps on match day.

“Playing my fi rst game is probably the highlight of my career. To start for my boyhood club was a dream come true.

“You can see what he did at Tottenham with the young lads, bringing them through, just the way he is around the training ground, he is a great guy.

“He has given me my fi rst start in a crucial game, for which I’m really grateful. When you’re not playing you get down. That’s football – you have to stay positive and good things come your way.”

Christian Benteke’s hat- trick ensured Villa still have a three- point cushion above the drop zone ahead of Sherwood’s trip to former club Tottenham on Saturday.

“We know what Christian is capable of, we see it every day in training,” said Grealish. “When you have Christian, who can score goals in every game, we can be 100 per cent positive we will stay up. I’m that sure.”

Grealish – who had a successful loan spell at League One Notts County last season – had his moments during the match to score his fi rst goal for the club he joined as a boy.

“It obviously wasn’t meant to be,” he said. “The main thing was the result, which was a heartache.

“It feels like a loss in the dressing room. But we have to be positive going into Saturday.”