STEWART Downing believes a right-wing agenda will serve Villa well during the coming weeks of the season.

The 26-year-old has been in good form with right-back Kyle Walker down the right-hand side of Villa’s team.

Both players were called up to the recent England squad on the back of their form and the ex-Middlesbrough man hopes that can continue, starting with Saturday week’s game against Blackburn Rovers.

“We are working well together,” said Downing.

“It is obviously the first time I have played with him but he looks like a really good player.

“Kyle seems to be getting better and better with each game and when he drives forward he is able to give me a few more options on the overlap which is good for me,” Downing added.

“I am enjoying playing with him and we are playing quite well together.”

Villa have a blank weekend due to their FA Cup fifth round tie being on hold due to Manchester City’s replay against Notts County.

Gerard Houllier’s men will play the winner of that re-match.

Downing was pleased to have the break due to the sapping nature of the Blackpool pitch.

“It did take a lot out of me, especially playing on the wing where I was up and down all the time,” said the England international.