Villa boss O’Neill sees future central role for Milner

Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill can see a future role in central midfield for winger James Milner.

O'Neill has been delighted with Milner's impact from the right so far this season and even saw the wing wizard impress on his full debut for his country down the left against the silky Brazilians.

He told Villa's website: "James can play right and left for us.

"James and Ashley interchange if they feel it's right to do so. He has also played as an emergency right-back for us too - he's been able to drop in there - and the fact is he is able, when confronted with wingers, to read the way they are going.

"He has got a good football knowledge and a good football brain. In terms of other positions, I feel he can move infield as well.

"I think - because he is not concerned about receiving the ball under pressure - at some stage between now and the end of the season he will play in there for us.

"I just think he's great. He's been fantastic since he's been here."