Martin O’Neill has backed Villa’s England young guns to go to next summer’s World Cup.

Gabby Agbonlahor and James Milner, who are both currently on England duty at the European Under-21 Championships in Sweden, and Ashley Young all find themselves on the fringes of Fabio Capello’s squad.

Their performances next season will determine whether they make the plane to South Africa, with their club boss believing the trio need to improve by “an extra per cent” to guarantee their place.

But O’Neill is confident they will find it.

He said: “It will be a big season for the England lads. They want to get on that plane to South Africa.

“I think the likes of James, Ashley, Gabby will be very excited by the season ahead.

“They will all want to improve. It’s that extra percentage of improvement that could make the difference for them.

“It was great for Ashley to come on against Andorra and he will be delighted. His confidence will be sky high after that.

“For the likes of Gabby and James – who are on the verge of the full squad – that extra improvement could impress the England manager.

“That’s what they have to do. I think all three are capable of it too.”

With qualification for the semi-finals already secured, striker Agbonlahor’s calf injury means he is unlikely to be risked by England Under-21 chief Stuart Pearce for the eagerly-anticipated showdown with Germany.

Milner is suspended for the clash, but his place in the side could be taken by Villa team-mate Craig Gardner.