Former Aston Villa defender Micah Richards believes Dean Smith's side are not the same team without Tyrone Mings.

Mings missed their last outing, a 3-2 defeat at home to Tottenham, and Richards has since gone on Football Daily (18/02/2020) and highlighted how important he is.

Speaking on the BBC radio show, Richards said: "It seems a little bit worrying at times [Villa's form]. When Tyrone Mings doesn't play, they're not the same team, and they're almost too reliant on Jack Grealish to create something special."

It is easy to see where Richards is coming from; you only have to look at some of Mings' defensive averages in the Premier League this season to understand his importance to the side. For example, when it comes to clearances made per game, no Villa player is averaging more than his 5.7 (via WhoScored). With 1.7, the England international also leads blocks made per match, further showing what he brings to the back.

His manager confirmed that he was only suffering from a bout of tonsillitis (per Birmingham Live) so, thankfully for Villa fans, he should be back in action soon.

Aston Villa fans, just how important is Mings to the side? Give us your thoughts in the comment section below!