Gabriel Agbonlahor backed to fire Aston Villa into Europe

Mar 8 2008 By Bill Howell

MARTIN O'Neill believes Gabby Agbonlahor can re-find his shooting boots and fire Aston Villa closer to Europe.

Agbonlahor, now wearing some distinctive yellow Nike Viper footwear, is stuck on seven goals having netted just once since the 3-0 win at Middlesbrough in November.

Strike partner John Carew was also on target during that romp, but has gone on to fire seven more past Newcastle (3), Reading (2), Blackburn and Manchester City.

Ahead of Wednesday's return clash at Villa Park, O'Neill is licking his lips at the firepower at his disposal which is keeping super-sub Marlon Harewood on the bench.

Agbonlahor had netted his sixth goal in 11 games when he scored at The Riverside but despite a goalless run of eight games since at Wigan at the end of 2007, he is still in the type of form which will see him win a first senior England cap in France.

O'Neill said: "Confidence is what it's all about and it can make or break you.

"It can be fleeting, it may not last and can go minute by minute, never mind game by game.

"Players need goals, there is no question about that, and every centre-forward would say the same. But some play-ers are very confident regardless of what else is happening, and Gabby is one of them.

"I think he has been fantastic for us, although I am really biased. When we played at Middlesbrough earlier in the season I felt he was a threat all day.

"He is at the top of his game at the moment and he is improving all the time, which is great."