Villa midfielder James Milner is ready to relinquish his role on the right to accommodate Stewart Downing following the fit-again winger’s shock weekend debut.

Downing, who joined Villa from Middlesbrough in the summer for a fee that could rise to £12million, made his long-awaited bow in Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Burnley as a 70th-minute substitute and began the move which led to Emile Heskey’s late equaliser.

His return to fitness leaves Villa boss Martin O’Neill with a selection headache with three England international wingers in Downing, Milner and Ashley Young among the ranks but Milner insists he will move inside if necessary.

He said: “As long as I’m out there on the pitch it doesn’t matter to me, as long as it’s preferably an attacking position. I don’t mind. If the manager asks me to play anywhere, I’ll play there.

“All we know is that it’s a good thing to have him back, it’s good to have competition for places, another top player to add to the squad and more competition and quality.”

Milner, who could be replaced by Young on the right with left-footer Downing taking over on the left, believes the former Middlesbrough man’s early return is a just reward for his efforts on the recovery trail.

He said: “Stewart has been patient and worked very hard – not everyone sees that. They don’t see people staying on until 4pm when they’ve been in early, grafting in the gym.

“It’s lonely sometimes and frustrating for him, but he’s been working hard and got his rewards, so I’m sure he’s delighted to be involved.

“We heard it might be Christmas or after so it’s great for him to be back. We’re delighted to have him back and I’m sure he’ll be a big player for us.

“The manager leaves it late and the fact he was travelling with us gave an indication that he was ready.

“He’s played a game or two behind closed doors and if the medical staff say he’s fit, I’m sure the manager’s going to use him where he sees fit.”