Milner set for Villa talks

Aston Villa are preparing to offer James Milner a new contract over the summer.

O'Neill aiming to retain the services of his England star

Aston Villa are preparing to offer James Milner a new contract over the summer. The 24-year-old has been one of the club's top performers this season and has broken into the England team ahead of the World Cup in South Africa. The former Leeds youngster penned a four-year deal when he arrived from Newcastle 18 months ago, but manager Martin O'Neill wants to tie down the midfielder on a longer-term basis. O'Neill told the Express and Star: "I would say we wouldn't be looking at people until summertime, but that doesn't mean that James Milner hasn't been fantastic for this football club. "I've already spoken to him and we are leaving everything, we're not going to sit down now. "The season is far too busy and summertime is the perfect time to talk and I think all parties agree on that too." O'Neill believes Milner has the ability to challenge both Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard for a place in England's central midfield, but is confident his versatility should at least guarantee his place in the squad.