Aston Villa legend David Platt is excited about what James Milner can deliver for England at the World Cup.

Platt believes Milner's reliability and consistency mark him down as a vital member of Fabio Capello's squad ahead of the World Cup.

He told Villa's website: "I've seen him at Villa this season and he has run the show from midfield. He is low maintenance and an assured performer. He is perfect for a tournament player.

"Every player needs a platform and the World Cup could be James' platform. He never has a bad game but it has taken a long time for people to start talking about him.

"It's only now with age that people can appreciate what he brings. He needs a tournament and not single games.

"If he comes on for England for 20 minutes and does well, it will stay in the manager's mind much more if the next game is a couple of days away rather than three months.

"James will not be a moment's bother to Fabio Capello. He has played in European Championships and he knows what is required from a tournament.

"It might seem like a long time since his first under-21 cap but everything he has learned has been for a summer like this."