Davies hails Young's talents

Tricky winger is vital to Villains

By Chris Burton   Last updated: 29th September 2008

ashley young aston villa

Young: Better than Ronaldo?

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Curtis Davies insists he would not swap Ashley Young for any other player in the Premier League.

The defender believes his talented team-mate is vital to Villa's cause and hopes the 23-year-old winger will pen a new contract with the club.

Young has matured into one of the top flight's most dangerous front men since arriving at Villa Park for £9.65million from Watford in January 2007.

He still has three years left to run on his current deal with the Midlands club but Martin O'Neill, and Davies, are hoping the England international will commit long-term.

"How good is Ashley Young? He is one of the best players. Here we have got some good players but he is our most important," Davies said.

"He is the one that is going to make something happen. He is only lightweight but when he gets on the ball he never looks like he is going to get pushed off it and lose it.

"If we didn't have him, we would be a different team. He means that much to us.

"It is crucial that he signs a new deal. We've managed to get a good core of young English players together and, if we can get Ashley to sign on for another few years, it is going to be a massive boost."

Davies added: "Would I swap Ashley for any other winger? Not at the moment.

"You can talk about people like (Cristiano) Ronaldo but, the way Ashley plays, with a right foot and a left foot, I don't think anyone can cope with it.

"He can actually take it down with his left foot and whip in a ball. He is looking good."