Martin O'Neill reckons James Milner could be vital in helping Aston Villa finish the season in the Premier League top four.
The Irish manager saw his side win 2-1 at Wigan during the week to improve their prospects of Champions League qualification, with Milner scoring the winner at the DW Stadium from long range.
Villa's victory saw them close the gap on clubs ahead of them, remaining in seventh spot in the Premier League but now only three points behind Spurs in fourth with a game in hand.
O'Neill described Milner's performance against Wigan as "extraordinary" and puts the 24-year-old's improved displays down to the fact he is now playing as a central midfielder for Aston Villa.
Speaking about Villa's aspirations for a top four finish, the Irishman said: "It was important for us to close the gap. We did that tonight and it was a brilliant win for us."
O'Neill sees his side facing a tough schedule of games in the coming months after their exploits in making the Carling Cup final and also their run into the FA Cup semi-finals.
He has admitted that he will need to make full use of his squad over the coming weeks to ensure fatigue does not have a negative impact on their bid to finish in the Premier League top four. The football betting odds suggest Villa are in with a chance.
Milner meanwhile will be hoping his form is enough to secure him a spot in the England squad.
The team are currently third favourites in the World Cup football betting and the Villa man will no doubt feel he can do a job in
South Africa. |
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