Aston Villa captain Gareth Barry is convinced Ashley Young is close to an England call-up.

On Saturday he scored the opening goal against Fulham - via a deflection off Zat Knight - and laid on the winner for substitute Shaun Maloney.

Now he will look to maintain that form as Villa launch their Carling Cup campaign at Wrexham.

Barry said: "Ashley was absolutely brilliant on Saturday. Throughout the game we fed him the ball and he tormented the Fulham defence.

"He particularly caused problems for the right-back (Chris Baird), who eventually got sent off in the second half.

"All I know is that if Ashley can play like that every week, he won't be far off player of the year honours - and obtaining full England recognition."