Agbonlahor backed by skipper

Aston Villa captain Gareth Barry thinks young team-mate Gabriel Agbonlahor has the ability to get himself into England contention in the future.

Barry said: "The confidence is back with 'Gabby'. He started off on fire this season and then people were saying he was looking tired.

"That was going to happen. It's his first full season. The dip was always going to come because he had done so well at the beginning.

"The kept faith, kept playing Gabby and he has got his second wind now and hopefully he can see it through the last five games.

"The goals are going in again now and, for a striker's confidence, that means everything and Gabby has got bundles of it at the moment.

"Which is his best position? He started well out wide but when he stopped scoring for a few games the manager changed him inside and he has got a new lease of life playing up front.

"It's good to have different options with players like Gabby and hopefully if he can keep scoring, he can stay up front. If he keeps scoring goals, you've got to keep him up front.

"Goals are everything in this game and we are struggling at the moment in that area."

He added: "Can Agbonlahor push for an England spot? Gabby will set his targets to the highest point and that will be playing for your country and getting a full cap.

"He has got a ridiculous amount of pace which not many players have got so he has got a head start. If he keeps learning the game, I am sure he will have a good opportunity to do it.

"He has come a long way in a short time. You don't want to put too much pressure on him with the England talk but he has got the outstanding pace.

"The more he plays, the more he will learn about the game as well so it will stand him in good stead for next season."

"It is important you do establish yourself as a seasoned pro and continue to try and do the business every season and not filter in and out.

"Gabby will realise the pressure will be on next season to repeat what he has done but I am sure he can work hard over the summer and look forward to coming back next season."