Source: Team_Talk
Milner applauds Villa's squad depth
Villa are currently fourth in the Premier League table after a run of three successive victories, which included away wins over Manchester United and Sunderland.[LNB]They looked well place to challenge for a Champions League spot last term before a miserable run of form after the turn of the year saw them slip out of contention.[LNB]But Milner, who has switched from his usual wide role to central midfield in recent weeks with great success, believes O'Neill now has a much stronger squad at his disposal.[LNB]Villa, Manchester City and Tottenham all have realistic ambitions of breaking the established order in the top flight, with Liverpool looking particularly vulnerable and Arsenal hit by injuries and showing inconsistency.[LNB]"We were in a great position this time last year and we know what happened, but it's about learning from that and I think we have done," the England international said.[LNB]"We had the quality, but now the squad has a bit more depth. [LNB]"If you look at our bench and see players like Carew, Sidwell and Reo-Coker there, it shows there is fantastic competition for places and that's exactly what we need. [LNB]"They're all pushing for places, but everyone is contributing massively. [LNB]"It's great having Emile Heskey back who is showing what a top striker he is, while Richard Dunne has been brilliant since he came in." [LNB]Milner scored a stunning goal in the victory over the Black Cats at the Stadium of Light and took greater pleasure from defeating Steve Bruce's side than their shock success against the champions.[LNB]He added: "Sunderland wasn't our best performance by any means, but the result is probably even more satisfying than winning at Old Trafford and hopefully we can keep it going. [LNB]"This is a vital period because you look at the table before Christmas and then afterwards and a lot can change."[LNB][LNB] Barclays Prem To Be in Top 4 Win Outright: Aston Villa 7/4
