Merson backs Milner for World Cup
Former Villa star Paul Merson believes James Milner's place in the England squad for the World Cup is all but certain.
Milner, who has won all of his five full caps since the start of the season, has another chance to catch the eye in tomorrow's club trip to Manchester United.
And Merson knows a thing or two about gatecrashing a World Cup squad, after going to the 1998 tournament as the only squad player from outside the top flight with Middlesbrough.
The 21-cap international even went on to play and score a penalty in the shoot-out defeat against Argentina.
Merson hung in there and took his chance, and is backing Milner to do the same and be on the plane to South Africa in the summer.
The 41-year-old, speaking from the latest sportsman's dinner at Kidderminster Harriers, said: "I wouldn't go booking his holidays if I were him, put it that way.
"I would say that there about five spots in the England squad free, and those players who get the call will have to be able to play in certain positions.
"Milner can do that, works so hard and you only have to tell him once. And, if he gets a chance, he will take it, because he is that kind of player."
Merson is still revered by the Villa faithful after 117 appearances in four years at the club, signing for £6.75million upon returning home after the World Cup.
But the fan favourite nearly blotted his copybook the summer after leaving Villa Park in 2003 – by agreeing to join bitter rivals Albion after a year at Portsmouth.
But then-Baggies boss Gary Megson vetoed the move.
Merson said: "That was true, but Gary Megson didn't want me. Why? You will have to ask Gary that. But that was the only reason I didn't go to Albion."
