O'Neill tips Young for England

Villa boss wants forward to follow Walcott

Last updated: 14th September 2008

Ashley Young

Young: England hopeful

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Martin O'Neill has backed Ashley Young to earn international recognition with England.

The Aston Villa forward has been overlooked by Fabio Capello this season, despite being initially selected by the Italian when he took charge in January.

O'Neill feels Young fully deserves a chance to impress for the Three Lions, but has told the former Watford player that if he continues to shine, starting with Monday's Premier League clash against Tottenham, then his chance will come.

And the Villa Park boss wants Young to take inspiration from the performance of Theo Walcott, after the Arsenal teenager grabbed a hat-trick in the 4-1 triumph over Croatia.

Honour

O'Neill told the News of the World: "I think the world of Ashley Young and, regardless of the current state of the England team, I feel he's genuinely very unlucky not to be in the squad.

"But playing for England is a big honour - it's not something which should happen after four or five decent games in the Premier League.

"Walcott has taken his chance and taken it quite brilliantly. But this is not a setback for Ashley.

"It should be a massive incentive. It shows the England manager is prepared to take a chance on youngsters."