Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill hailed the performance of Ashley Young as his side beat Blackburn in the FA Cup.
Classy performance one of many in a Villa shirt, says O'Neill
Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill hailed another crucial contribution from winger Ashley Young as his side dumped Blackburn out of the FA Cup.
Goals from Nathan Delfouneso, Carlos Cuellar and a late John Carew penalty ensured victory, with Nikola Kalinic bringing Rovers back into the game during the second half.
Young was restored to the starting line-up after being suspended for the midweek home defeat against Liverpool having incurred five yellow cards this season.
And the England player quickly made an impression in creating the opening two goals as Villa looked comfortable by the break.
O'Neill said: "Ashley set up the opening two goals and he is a top-quality player who is so important to us.
"It is three years this month since he came to us from Watford and his contribution for us during that time has been immense."
American Brad Guzan deputised in goal for compatriot Brad Friedel and proved his worth with a first-half penalty save from Blackburn's David Dunn.
The 25-year-old had earlier in the campaign kept out five spot-kicks in the Carling Cup tie at Sunderland - including four in the shoot-out, however, he was at fault for the Rovers goal.
O'Neill added: "He has made another great save from the penalty and you are now almost expecting him to save penalties, which is rather unfair on him.
"He was disappointed with the goal they scored but we've got a Carling Cup semi-final with Blackburn on Tuesday and he is as big a reason as anyone why we are there.
"I'm delighted with his contribution but Brad Friedel is also playing excellently for us."
Changes
O'Neill made seven changes from the side beaten by Liverpool on Tuesday, and Delfouneso and fellow youngster Fabien Delph created a favourable impression.
O'Neill said: "I'm delighted to have won the game.
"The players are desperate to play. We utilised the squad today and the young lads, Nathan and Fabien, did very well for us."
O'Neill played down suggestions striker Emile Heskey will be allowed to leave Villa during January and revealed he hopes to add a couple of signings.
O'Neill said: "I don't know why Emile's name has been brought up but I wouldn't really want to sell players at this club.
"We are hoping to get a couple of players in because it is a long season ahead of us."
