Olympiakos defender Olof Mellberg is pleased to see Aston Villa proving their potential this season.

The former Villa captain said: "I have seen highlights from the games and follow them all the time.

"It was a bit of a strange start. They lost a couple of games maybe against opponents they were looking to beat and then they won against Liverpool. They are up there challenging and hopefully will be at the end of the season as well.

"When I was there Gabby (Agbonlahor) was very young and was one of our top performers in the 2007-08 season.

"I definitely think he has a good future in the England squad. I think he always had the potential.

"He had a really good season when I was there. I didn't see that much to have a great opinion but I heard that maybe last season he didn't have the best of seasons. But from everything I have seen of him he is a really good striker. He is really strong, quick and has the ability to score goals."