Young, Free and Easy

Ashley Young enjoyed playing the free role against Bolton but he's just happy to be in the team.

Speaking on the official site Young explained he has primarily been playing wide left all season, but he enjoys the free role and it O'Neill told him to try it again just before kick off.

Fans will remember the 433 with Young truly in s free role from the Inter Milan friendly!

'It's good to get back to winning ways after the slump we've been through. The manager told me to go out there and drift around.

'I played in that role in pre-season against Inter Milan and he told me to try it again just before kick-off. I love playing there but as long as I'm in the team, that's all that matters.'

Martin O'Neill was equally as pleased with the result, Young played a part in 3 of the goals that destroyed Bolton and this has led the manager to compare the youngster to Ronaldo:

'I just told him to go and play. I don't want to tie him down. His making of the first goal was exquisite, absolutely terrific.

'He's capable of beating all defenders. He has the same enthusiasm to take people on as Ronaldo. It's a matter of getting him on the ball and as close to the goal as possible.

'There aren't many who can do that, but he has the ability. You mentally relax when he has the ball. Ashley Young has the natural talent to be a top-quality player for a long time.'

It's shame events transpired that we dropped we the 433, attacking with that speed and directness was a joy to behold in the pre season, and to a degree the season before.

Carew gives us options and muscle but as he plays with his back to goal most of the time we have lost that zip when he's involved.

If Villa can go on an unbeaten run again now for a couple of games in advance of Capello's next friendly squad, you can bet Young will be involved this time.

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