The 21-year-old has struggled to build on the huge promise that prompted Villa to sign him from then League One club Leeds two years ago.
Injuries have certainly played their part, and Delph spent most of the summer recovering from an ankle problem, but he was given a starting role in Saturday's 0-0 draw with Fulham and produced an impressive performance.
McLeish said: "He wasn't happy we didn't take him to Portugal (for a pre-season friendly against Braga) but it was for his benefit and he gave a great performance (on Saturday). I told him 'the doctor thinks it's best you stay here to recuperate'.
"He is very elegant on the ball. He's got athleticism. If we can keep the injuries at bay and protect him then he'll be a great asset for this club.
"If you consider the team that finished last season, there's four players not playing from that. We had one new face in the team and it's a chance for him (Delph) to make the breakthrough."
Source: Team Talk
Source: Team Talk