MacDonald backs Young to earn England starting spot

Kevin MacDonald believes Gerard Houllier's arrival at Aston Villa could inspire winger Ashley Young to force his way into the England side.

Young scored a stunning free-kick to open the scoring in Villa's 1-1 home draw with Bolton on Saturday, MacDonald's final game as caretaker manager.

The former Watford man celebrated by running to hug MacDonald, who has stepped aside to allow ex-ex-Liverpool boss Houllier take charge at Villa Park.

And MacDonald is backing Young, 25, to shine under Houllier and prove himself at international level by starring for England.

MacDonald said: "Ashley Young will now be back in the reckoning for England. He's in that kind of form.

"He scored a great goal and he's a top class player - he's always a danger and he has skill, pace and an excellent delivery."