Brian Marwood is driving Manchester City's pursuit of Aston Villa midfielder James Milner.

The Guardian says Marwood, City's football administrator, has followed Milner's career with interest ever since he broke through at Leeds United as a 16-year-old and he is determined to bring the PFA Young Player of the Year to Eastlands this summer.

Marwood worked closely with Milner during his previous employment at Nike and believes he has all the characteristics to be a major success at City.