Ashley Young is happy to play in an advanced forward role in the hole for Aston Villa

Jul 21 2010 by Mat Kendrick, Birmingham Mail

“As long as I am in the starting XI, that’s all that counts.

“It was enjoyable playing up there with John. He isn’t a striker who just stands there. He holds the ball up well and can run the channels too.

“He’s just a great striker.”

Young was delighted to get on the score-sheet with a lob in the 3-2 win at London Road.

But the former Watford favourite knows gaining fitness is the most important function of friendlies.

“I looked up to see the keeper off the line and I thought ‘go for it.’” said Young.

“I have actually been practicing it the past few weeks in training and it’s been coming off so I thought ‘why not?’

“I had a go and luckily for me and the team it went in. I hope I have a few of those saved up for the start of the season proper.

“It’s nice to get on the score-sheet but it’s all about getting your fitness levels up at the moment. It’s great to win but pre-season is about fitness.

“The boys had a good run-out and we’re looking forward to the next few games we’ve got coming up.”

Villa head out to Dublin for a mini training camp today ahead of Saturday’s friendly against Bohemians.

Gabby Agbonlahor is expected to be included in the travelling party for Ireland despite missing the Peterborough friendly.