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Delph hails Sherwood as Villa reach Cup final

Aston Villa captain Fabian Delph saluted the influence of new manager Tim Sherwood after firing his team to a 2-1 victory over Liverpool in the FA Cup semi-finals on Sunday. Villa will make their first FA Cup final appearance since 2000 when they face holders Arsenal on May 30 and Delph believes the positive approach of the bubbly Sherwood has been the key to his side's recent revival. There was little reason for cheer at Villa Park for much of a season marred by fan protests, training ground rows and dismal results. But the February arrival of Sherwood, sacked by Tottenham at the end of last season, as replacement for the unpopular Paul Lambert has provided the spark for a revival that has taken Villa to within one match of winning their first major trophy since the 1996 League Cup and their first FA Cup since 1957. "The gaffer is brilliant. He is so positive with everyone and doesn't panic. We had a game plan and stuck to it," Delph said. "We were confident going into the game and we are so happy to go away with the win. "We have got a lot of young lads. Jack Grealish came in and he was fantastic. "The next game we are thinking about now is the Premier League. But I can't wait for the final. To walk out as captain will be the highlight of my career." Delph's 54th minute goal capped the latest fine performance in a breakthrough season for the England international. But even he had to share top billing with 19-year-old midfielder Grealish, who has blossomed under Sherwood and delivered a remarkably composed display which included the assist for Delph's winner. "It was brilliant for me personally to play at Wembley at my age. Now we're through to the final and hopefully we can go on to win it," said Grealish, whose great-great grandfather William Garraty won the Cup with Villa in 1905. "I've got to thank the gaffer Tim Sherwood for the confidence he has given to me since coming here, he has given me belief. "He gave me a kiss as I came off. I enjoyed that one. It's one of the best kisses I've ever had!"