Villa boss backing Milner's talents

Villa boss Martin O'Neill believes James Milner can rival the establishment for a slot in the heart of England's World Cup midfield.

Milner has been outstanding for Villa since switching from the wings to the centre, scoring six goals in his nine games in the position.

The club record signing had already forced his way into Three Lions coach Fabio Capello's thinking for South Africa before the change but O'Neill says he is good enough to be England's man in the middle.

"England are very strong, obviously, with Lampard and Gerrard, who are really gifted players, but James could play in there," said O'Neill. "I'm sure when he set out initially that he would be anxious to do well. Once he gets over that anxiety he would be absolutely fine.

"But he wouldn't say outwardly that he would be concerned about those things and I think he has grown in confidence with the ball since he's arrived here.

"I think he now feels he can take his place there. He won't be worried about not leaving a mark on the England scene. I couldn't see him being phased by that. I can see him relishing it."

Meanwhile, O'Neill has rubbished speculation he is interested in signing Rangers striker Kris Boyd.