Aston Villa FC

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O'Neill hails versatile Milner

15 Dec 2009 - 14:22:03

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Aston Villa manager Martin O'Neill has backed James Milner to be a success in a central midfield role.

Milner is renowned for his versatility and O'Neill thinks that is a trait which will force the former Leeds United and Newcastle United star into Fabio Capello's England plans.

O'Neill said: "I said to James in the summer that he could play in central midfield.

"We talked about it and, for me, it wasn't as big a gamble as you think because I'd watched him train and thought he was capable of doing that.

"His performances in there have been very encouraging. He's a very good player. He came essentially as a wide right player who could also play wide left.

"It's only when you watch him train, you feel he's capable of playing in a few other positions. He's very comfortable at doing that.

"We're all pleased with the development of him as a player and his ability to play in a number of positions would enhance his credentials for England rather than the other way around.

"I don't think for one second I'm doing him a disservice in terms of England. I don't think James does either. When the squad is eventually picked, there will be room for one or two 'play-anywhere' players.

"Eventually, when everyone settles down, people would like to play in their proper positions. But James has distinguished himself in positions you probably wouldn't have thought probable some time ago."