O'Neill hopeful over Young

Manager wants to tie down England star

Last updated: 18th August 2008

Ashley Young v Odense lighter

Young: Set for new deal

Related links

Teams

Players

Also see

Aston Villa manager Martin O'Neill is hoping Ashley Young will follow Gabriel Agbonlahor and John Carew in signing a new contract with the club.

O'Neill revealed that talks have already taken place regarding an improved deal after impressive performances since making an £8million move from Watford.

Young bounced back from being overlooked by Fabio Capello for the England squad to face the Czech Republic at Wembley on Wednesday by setting up two goals in the 4-2 home win over Manchester City.

O'Neill said: "Ashley has been fantastic for us. I'm pleased Gabby and John have signed new contracts and we've got a couple more players that we are looking to do exactly the same with - with Ashley Young being one of them.

"We are in conversation about that. I don't think the chairman (Randy Lerner) has any major problem about sorting out wages for people if they are doing the business week in and week out on the pitch.

"Agbonlahor has done that in my two seasons here, Carew has been terrific since being swapped with Milan Baros (at Lyon) and Young has been absolute class.

Contract

"It means he will get a new contract. Ashley hasn't come and asked for anything.

"He has got a number of years left to run on his contract but I'd like to sort him out and I am sure he is enjoying his football here which is great.

"If he continues to play in the fashion he is for us, who knows what might happen to him in the future but we would be delighted to keep him a bit longer."