Birmingham City captain Liam Ridgewell is backing former Aston Villa pal Ashley Young to be a big hit with England.

Defender Ridgewell said: "Steve McClaren must have seen something there to call him up and I'm sure he can eventually get in and try to make a place his own.

"There's a lot of competition when everyone is available - but then when is there not a lot of competition amongst the England squad?

"Ashley is a great up and coming right-winger and that is what England need.

"He's got pace about him and is direct. When I played with him, he was fantastic and he has started this season with Villa really well.

"I'm sure he'll go and do well for England and push the likes of Aaron Lennon and Shaun Wright-Phillips out of the way. I am sure he can go onto prove his worth.

"He is the sort of lad who keeps himself to himself and goes about his business quietly but I am sure he will do well."