Having joined the Villians from Manchester United on-loan in August, fellow playmaker Cleverley has been able to study his new team-mate at close quarters, and he says it is the attitude of the former Leeds United man that has made the biggest impression on him.
"Fabian is a fantastic athlete. He's good on the ball. He's got everything in his game it takes to be a top, top midfielder,” Cleverley told AVFC.co.uk.
England v Lithuania
UEFA European Qualifier
7.45pm, Friday 27 March 2015
Wembley Stadium connected by EE
TheFA.com/tickets
"But what impresses me more than all that skill and quality is his attitude.
"He is a top, top pro. He works tremendously hard. He's always first in the door - and the last to leave.”
Cleverley, who has 13 caps for England, has seen Delph go on to make his breakthrough at international level too this campaign.
The 25-year-old was named in Roy Hodgson’s squad for the victories over Norway and Switzerland in August and then went on to win a further cap in the 1-0 win in Estonia in October.
"It doesn't shock me in the slightest to see someone with his mentality getting the rewards. It's no surprise,” added Cleverley.
"It's a life lesson really - about working hard and striving to be the best you can be.”
Having helped Villa reach The FA Cup Semi-Finals with victory over West Brom on Saturday, attentions now turn to securing their top-flight status under new boss Tim Sherwood.
Tom Cleverley has spoken of his admiration for Delph
But with Delph around the place, Villa’s young squad will not be short of someone to set the standard according to Cleverley.
He added: "He can definitely inspire the young lads coming through. He's a real example for anyone wanting a role model in football.
"They should look at how hard he grafts every day and think 'that's what you need to do to be a professional footballer.'
"I have the greatest respect for him."
Delph could win his fourth cap for Roy Hodgson’s Three Lions in their Euro 2016 qualifier at home to Lithuania on Friday 27 March, kick-off 7.45pm.
Tickets for the clash at Wembley Stadium are available online here or by calling 0844 826 2010.
