Aston Villa fullback Nicky Shorey has hailed the club's strikers Gabby Agbonlahor, John Carew and Emile Heskey.

Shorey told Villa's website: "John and Gabby started the previous season and they were a great combination. Emile came in during the January transfer window and he's been a tremendous signing.

"All three are tough to come up against in training. But when you're with them day in and day out it improves your game defensively.

"John and Emile are both so strong and hold the ball up really well. They are so powerful and such an outlet for us defenders. We can get it up to either of them and we know they will be able to keep hold of the ball and give us a breather.

"That's a big part of their game and they are both brilliant at it. They are the perfect foil for Gabby. John and Emile hold the ball up and use their strength so Gabby can dart in there with his pace.

"They are such a fantastic trio and I'm sure they will score us a lot of goals this season."