Striker John Carew has told James Milner he can be the long-term solution to the right-side of England's midfield.
Milner has been one of the most improved players in the Premier League this season and earned a fresh round of plaudits after Tuesday's match-winning performance at Wigan.
England boss Fabio Capello's World Cup plans suffered a major blow last week when talismanic former captain David Beckham was ruled out with an Achilles injury but Carew says Milner can help ensure the ex-Man United and Real Madrid ace won't be missed in South Africa.
Carew told Villa's website: "He was running everywhere, he was all over the place and he has been amazing for the team this year.
"It was another great performance for us.
"He will be very important for Aston Villa, very important for England in the years to come.
"Beckham's a great lad and I'm sorry he's injured. It will be a loss for England but James can definitely step in. He's strong mentally and will be very important for England.
"It is great to have him in the team.
"James has a great football head and great intelligence along with all the skills he has got.
"He has that work rate which is unbelievable. He must have one of the best work rates in the league."