Smiles better at Villa for Cleverley

SMILES, not money, have convinced Tom Cleverley a permanent move to Aston Villa is something he should pursue this summer. The central midfielder has been a shining light in Villa’s recent resurgence, his latest show-stopping performance coming as he scored a third goal in as many games for Tim Sherwood’s side on Saturday. That win all but secured their Premier League safety and the 25-year-old is receptive to talks — although there are likely to be a string of offers for the player. ‘I’ve really got to like playing for this club in the last few months,’ Cleverley said. ‘This manager, you have to give him credit for getting me where I am over the last few weeks. ‘I feel like I’m playing in my best position, confidence is high — not only myself but also among the team. All those factors help. I’m happy and playing with a smile on my face.’

SUPER STAT: Sherwood is one of only 11 managers with a win ratio over 50 per cent after 30 Premier League games or more. ASTON VILLA (4-3-2-1): Given 7; Bacuna 6.5 (Hutton 78min), Okore 7, Vlaar 6.5, Richardson 7; Westwood 6.5, Cleverley 7.5, Delph 7; N’Zogbia 7.5 (Agbonlahor 71, 6), Grealish 8 (Sanchez 90); Benteke 7. Subs not used: Guzan, Weimann, Senderos, Cole. Booked: N’Zogbia. Scorer: Cleverley 31. WEST HAM UNITED (4-1-4-1): Adrian 6.5; Jenkinson 6, Collins 6, Burke 7, Cresswell 6.5; Noble 6.5 (Cole 78); Downing 7, Kouyate 6.5, Nolan 5 (Song 46, 5.5), Amalfitano 6.5 (Nene 46, 7); Valencia 6. Subs not used: Jaaskelainen, O’Brien, Cullen, Jarvis. Booked: Song. Man of the match: Jack Grealish. Referee: Lee Mason 6.