Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill rates Ashley Young as talented as any winger in Europe.

Young has just one goal this term - and his number of assists is also down on previous years. But boss O'Neill insists Young's role involves a lot more than just beating his man and crossing.

He said: "Yes, he's misplaced a couple of crosses and free-kicks. But, for me, he's been brilliant, really brilliant - for everything that he brings and for someone that is so slight.

"This week I watched loads of Champions League games and by the looks of things he's a brilliant player in Europe.

"There's not too many players doing what he's doing. There's absolutely no question that he could handle that stage, no question whatsoever."