Aston Villa Football Club News

• Nickname:The Villains
• Founded:1874
• Manager:Alex McLeish

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Milner rumours anger O'Neill

20 Apr 2010 - 16:41:32

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Aston Villa manager Martin O'Neill has reacted angrily to speculation linking England midfielder James Milner with a summer move to either Manchester United or Manchester City.

The 24-year-old has been in superb form for much of the current campaign and O'Neill is cross that the rumour mill has kicked into action before the season has ended.

He told reporters: "It is irksome at this stage of the season.

"It doesn't do anyone any favours, particularly because the player has had a fantastic time and is enjoying his football immensely here.

"He has had a really brilliant time, particularly since moving into the middle of midfield and I am delighted for him.

"James is still under contract with us and it's a case of dampening fires that weren't there in the first place.

"We want the best players to stay here at Aston Villa so we can keep the momentum going.

"But I have kind of accepted it now. If it is not James it will be Ashley Young and if it is not Ashley it might be Richard Dunne and then someone else the following week.

"It has got ridiculous now and I can categorically say that I have not heard anything from Manchester City.

"I spoke to my chief executive late Monday evening and he never mentioned it, so I assume they have not been in touch with him either."