Aston Villa winger Ashley Young was delighted with the free role he was given by manager Martin O'Neill for Saturday's 4-0 thumping of Bolton Wanderers.
"The manager told me to go out there and drift around.
"I played in that role in pre-season against Inter Milan and he told me to try it again just before kick-off. I love playing there but as long as I'm in the team, that's all that matters."
Villa gaffer Martin O'Neill said: "I just told him to go and play. I don't want to tie him down. His making of the first goal was exquisite, absolutely terrific.
"He's capable of beating all defenders. He has the same enthusiasm to take people on as Ronaldo.
"It's a matter of getting him on the ball and as close to the goal as possible.
"There aren't many who can do that, but he has the ability. You mentally relax when he has the ball. Ashley Young has the natural talent to be a top-quality player for a long time.
"The win was great, the performance terrific and some individual efforts were outstanding."
