Martin O'Neill has challenged winger Stewart Downing to finish the season with a flourish to force his way into England's plans.
The Villa boss believes Downing can play a key role for his side between now and the end of the season and wants him to become more prolific in front of goal.
The winger's two goals against Burnley last weekend were his first in 16 games and O'Neill is adamant that it will be very difficult for England boss Fabio Capello to leave him out of his plans if he continues in a similar vein of form over the coming months.
O'Neill said: "His confidence has been boosted with his two goals against Burnley. I think he has been doing very well for us without getting the occasional goal.
"
That is the part of his game which he feels he can improve upon as he has a really good shot and I think his two goals against Burnley will have lifted him enormously.
"He is a confidence player and you can see the ability he has. I think he is able to contribute more in future in the way of goals after scoring against Burnley. He has a strong shot and we often see it in training.
"
His goalscoring form has come at a good time and I know the England manager has certainly said in the past how much he thinks of Stewart Downing.
That will be very positive for him."