Praise from Capello for Villa's Milner

England coach Fabio Capello has hinted James Milner could play a big part in his World Cup plans after hailing the Villa midfielder as his "most improved" player.

Capello has identified Milner, who has cemented his place in the international setup with a string of impressive cameo roles, Wayne Rooney and Theo Walcott as his three stars of the last year.

The boss' comments suggest Milner and Walcott could be at the forefront of his thoughts for South Africa, while Rooney, who has scored 33 goals for Manchester United this season, will be the first name on his team-sheet.

He said: "Last year it was Walcott, he was very important for us in the World Cup qualifiers. This year the player who has most improved has been Milner. He played three or four games with us and forms part of the national team.

"The other who has been crucial is Rooney because this year he has scored a lot of goals, and he has done so for us as well. He has been very impressive.

"I hope he maintains this form for South Africa."

The Italian is still waiting to hear if David Beckham will take up the offer to join England's World Cup squad in a non-playing role, after a ruptured Achilles ruled him out of the tournament.

He said: "David is very important in the dressing room. For the English he is a symbol. We have asked him if he wants to come with us to South Africa.

"It's up to him and how his tendon is recovering."