Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill was full of praise for two-goal Ashley Young after theit 5-1 derby victory over Birmingham City.
O'Neill said: "I thought if we could win at all I would be delighted. We went into the game with loads of confidence but I would not have envisaged winning so comprehensively.
"There were some magnificent displays by individuals and it would be hard to pick people out. But Ashley Young, in front of Fabio Capello, has done his chances of getting into future England squads no harm whatsoever.
"He was absolutely brilliant today, I think he's been brilliant since he arrived here. Things really started to take off for him at the back end of last season and this time around he has been phenomenal.
"People go on about me giving him a free role but it is all a matter of trying to get him in possession of the ball because he can cause havoc."
Villa are now only three points adrift of fifth-placed Everton, who they take on at Goodison Park next Sunday.
O'Neill's side will go there bubbling with confidence after scoring 15 goals in their last three matches to give them a chance of qualifying for the UEFA Cup.
O'Neill said: "We have put ourselves in with a chance. I've a lot of time for Everton, and it has been a terrific season for them in the league and in a couple of cup competitions.
"We go there knowing we have to win the game, and the good thing is we have given ourselves a chance."
