Nigel Reo-Coker believes the current Aston Villa team could grow together over the next decade.

The midfielder told Villa's website: "Yes you could say that the manager has a team here that could stay together for a decade.

"It's a fantastic possibility, but I think we might even achieve some great stuff this season - that's up to us.

"There's an abundance of talent here. The only criticism I have at the moment is that we're too nice. We need a nasty streak, in the right way, and we'll be successful."

Villa success will raise the profile of the club's players and hopefully help Reo-Coker follow Gareth Barry, Ashley Young and Scott Carson into the senior England squad.

The midfielder added: "What's meant to be will be. I can only play so well and do so much. If I deserve a call-up the so be it. It will be interesting to see whether the England manager does come up to Villa or not.

"Different managers have different strategies. The only manager I've seen to have that sort of impact was Sven Goran Eriksson - he went to their games, not just the big four.

"He would be seen at Wigan or Charlton and scout every club. He was doing maybe three games a week.

"I don't know about international football at the moment. This is all about me enjoying my life and my football.

"My main focus and goal are on Aston Villa. The most important thing to me is the backing of the management at this football club."