Aston Villa: Andy Townsend full of praise for Ashley Young

Jan 9 2009 By Mat Kendrick

“I know he’s a talent, I know he can go past people, I know he’s got a goal in him and I know he whips it in and can deliver. But you know what he really does? Puts his head down and grafts for the team and I love that about him.

“That’s actually something that a lot of young boys at Villa have got – their attitude and their appetite for the game.”

Townsend’s former Republic of Ireland team-mate Tony Cascarino has challenged Young to repeat his club form at international level with England.

Cascarino is convinced that the 23-year-old will get another call-up for Fabio Capello’s squad and wants to see him play with freedom for the Three Lions.

“When he does get his real chance with England I still want to see Ashley Young do the things he does at club level,” said Cascarino, who played for Villa from 1990-1991.

“I’m not sure that players have that same confidence at international level and they just do the simple things.

“I’m really interested with Ashley. His England chance will come because he’s a good player.”

Young is on four league bookings going into the Albion game, one away from a one-match ban.