Source: SKY_Sports
Milner settled at Villa
Aston Villa midfielder James Milner admits he is relieved to finally feel settled at a football club.
The 23-year-old is gearing up for the 2010 World Cup having pushed his way into Fabio Capello's England plans.
Looking forward to becoming a key figure on the national scene, the former Leeds and Newcastle youngster puts his success largely down to Villa boss Martin O'Neill and owner Randy Lerner.
Having endured rollercoaster rides at both Elland Road and St James' Park, he admits he is happy to finally be settled.
Milner believes the off-field problems with both his former clubs had held him back before his fruitful move to Villa Park.
"This is the most settled period of my career," said Milner.
"I've never started and finished a season with the same manager and hopefully this will be the first season.
"To have the stability off the field as well, with a club which is run very well, where the owner has been fantastic, with the players that have been signed, is fantastic.
"It is being built for the future. In the past, I've been unfortunate with Leeds and Newcastle, two great clubs going through tough periods and changing managers is not easy.
"As much as you like to concentrate on your on-field form, it does get to players when you don't know how long your manager is going to be there and finances and stuff like that."
Milner reiterated his desire to cement his place in Capello's England squad, with a record number of Under 21 caps leading him into three senior appearances to date.
"When you are working as hard as you can all the way through your career, and played a lot of U21 games, to get the first full caps is nice and just gets that out of the way," he said.
"I don't think it ever played on my mind. It is your aim to play for England and now I've done that and the aim is to stay in the squad and stay in the team.
"It's nice to move that goal on one more time and stepping up a level, to keep getting in the squads and pushing for a place in the team."
