Barry hails Villa duo

England midfielder sings the praises of Agbonlahor and Young

By Chris Burton   Last updated: 30th October 2008

Ashley Young Gabriel Agbonlahor

Agbonlahor & Young: Deserve a chance

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Gareth Barry believes his Aston Villa team-mates Gabriel Agbonlahor and Ashley Young are ready to become England regulars.

Young has won senior honours in the past, but remains on the fringes of Fabio Capello's plans, while Agbonlahor has consistently shone for the U21s.

Both men will be hoping to force their way into contention ahead of a glamour friendly against Germany in November, with their continued excellence at club level helping their cause.

Barry is almost certain to be included once again for the trip to Berlin, having become an established part of the Three Lions set-up, and is of the opinion that he should not be the only Villain in the travelling party.

"The friendly international coming up would be an ideal opportunity for Ashley and Gabby who are both on a fine run of form with Aston Villa," he said.

"Obviously, it is not for me to say who should be called up but I am sure they will have been watched again (against Blackburn on Wednesday).

"Hopefully their chance will come because they deserve it. The England manager will know the Germany game is a great chance to see players like Ashley and Gabby."

Buzz

While Barry is quick to tout the merits of Agbonlahor and Young, he is hoping his own place in the England side will not come under threat against the Germans.

The 27-year-old said: "It gives you a bit of a buzz when you are playing for your country and things are going so well. Of course, it is going to lift everyone.

"The manager has said he will experiment (against Germany) but I had four years out of the England squad - and those four years I was out of things, you can't get them back.

"I want to play at every opportunity for my country now."