Glenn Whelan has been played an integral role in Aston Villa's recent revival under Dean Smith, and the experienced midfielder carried his impressive form over to the Republic of Ireland national team on Tuesday night.

The 35-year old has started three of Villa's last four league games, with the West Midlands club propelling themselves into the Sky Bet Championship play-off places, after four wins on the bounce.

The Irishman endured a tough start to the season under Steve Bruce, but he has been an impressive figure in midfield since the arrival of Dean Smith.

The defensive midfielder was at his best on Tuesday night, as Mick McCarthy's Republic of Ireland eased past Georgia by a goal to nil thanks to a strike from Villa teammate Conor Hourihane.

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After keeping yet another clean sheet, helping the side to yet another victory in their European Championship qualifying campaign, Villa fans were quick to praise Whelan after another solid, calm display...