Ashley Westwood signs a new deal with Aston Villa

Aston Villa midfielder Ashley Westwood has committed his future to the Premier League club by signing a new five-year contract.

The 25-year-old has played almost 100 times for Villa since his arrival from Crewe in August 2012.

And the timing of Westwood’s signing will provide a boost for Tim Sherwood’s team as they prepare for the visit of Manchester United on Friday’s Sky Sports 1 fixture.

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Westwood said: "I am extremely pleased to sign a new contract and commit my future to Aston Villa.

"I was made to feel very welcome from the moment I first walked through the door and I'm very happy at the club.

"I believe I'm now entering what I hope will be the peak years of my career and I look forward to spending them here."