Source: Team_Talk
Carew praise for gap-filler Milner
John Carew says James Milner has more than filled the gap left by Gareth Barry and is good enough for any team in the world on current form.[LNB] Barry opted to make a £12 million summer switch to Manchester City, who entertain Villa in a game crucial to both side's Champions League hopes on Saturday.[LNB]The England midfielder could have left a big gap for Villa to fill but Milner's emergence has ensured Martin O'Neill's side have enjoyed a successful season.[LNB]Carew said: "We've managed to deal without Gareth - and James has done very well with his performance this season. I won't compare him to other players but there's been some outstanding performances from him.[LNB]"I think he filled the gap after Gareth, maybe even more. We haven't really noticed (Gareth's departure) to be fair and the team has got stronger.[LNB]"James had a lot of weight on his shoulders and he's not just fulfilled the expectations he's done much better than those expectations.[LNB]"He can play for any team in the world with the way that he's playing."[LNB]Carew can see similarities between Barry and Milner, who was switched from a wide role into the centre after discussions with O'Neill in the summer.[LNB]He said: "They are very similar in their knowledge of the game and their understanding of the game - the passing, seeing situations a bit quicker than the rest.[LNB]"James is never stressed and Gareth was never stressed. You can see how cool James was with the penalty against Birmingham. He's got all the qualities to be a big player."
