England legend Alan Shearer is delighted to see James Milner fulfilling his potential at Aston Villa.

Shearer played with Milner at Newcastle United before hanging up his boots.

He said: "I'm not shocked he is looking a certainty for England's World Cup squad.

"I know him quite well from the time we played together at Newcastle. I can tell you first-hand that he has a tremendous attitude and works very, very hard.

"What impressed me most about him was that he always wanted to improve.

"He was one of those players who you have to drag off the training pitch. It appears he is reaping the rewards for all that effort.

"James is a pretty smart lad, too, and was always prepared to listen. I expect he relishes working under managers like Martin and Fabio.

"With 10 goals and 11 assists in the Premier League so far this season, he is definitely a creative player with attacking intent.

"I've got to say though he has surprised many, including me, with the way he has adapted so well to the central midfield role at Villa.

"He has been a real force this season and his form has had the England manager rightly purring.

"And I think there is more to come from my former Newcastle team-mate."