James Milner admits he's delighted with the way he has settled at Aston Villa.

"It has helped massively to be at a settled club," he said. "At the clubs I have been at before there has been a bit of distraction off the field, changing managers and that, which does not help.

"Moving to Aston Villa, the set-up is very good. From the top, right the way through. That helps you play your best football because you don't have to worry about anything else."

Milner is full of praise for the methods of his club manager, whose side are now real contenders for Champions League football.

"You can see the confidence the manager [O'Neill] has put in the whole team from the run we have been on," Milner said. "I think that stability is a massive factor in you playing your best football and improving. Changing managers every few months doesn't help you at all.

"His track record all the way through shows he has done a good job. He fills you with confidence and that allows you to play your best football. He's done a great job with some of the lads.

"The first time I was at Aston Villa [on loan], Gabby was in and out of the [England] squad. He was maybe playing a few games but not really featuring.

"I have come back after a couple of years and what a great player Gabby has turned into.

"You can see the improve and the extra strings he's added to his bow.

"Obviously that shows what a good job the manager has done. Playing with good players obviously helps him to improve as well."