Aston Villa midfielder Yacouba Sylla has admitted that he is 'frustrated' by a lack of first-team action this season.

The Frenchman, who joined the club from Clermont Foot in January 2013, has made just 13 appearances for the Villans during the current campaign.

Despite insisting that competition for places at Villa Park is tough, the 23-year-old is hopeful that he will be more of a regular next term.

"It can be frustrating when you are sitting on the bench because any footballer would prefer to be playing, but it's important to maintain my concentration because when the gaffer asks me to play, I need to be ready," he told the club's official website.

"It's difficult for me because we have such quality players in my position. Fabian Delph is having a great season, and Ashley Westwood and Karim El Ahmadi are also very good players. Competition is essential for any team.

"I'm sad when I don't play but I'm aware that football is now a squad game rather than just a team game. Hopefully I will be more involved next season."

Villa are back in action on Saturday when they make the trip to Crystal Palace in the Premier League.