O'Neill hails McCann

Aston Villa’s fortunes have seen a significant upturn since the arrival of Martin O’Neill in the summer, but the Ulsterman has been quick to praise the unsung midfield general for his dominant performances.

O'Neill said: "He has been playing wonderfully well for us, there is no doubt about it.

"McCann is a really talented footballer. With all the hype that's going on and the focus of attention on the younger lads and Stiliyan Petrov arriving, McCann seems to have been overlooked"

"But he has been absolutely terrific and is the sort of player that is appreciated by his fellow professionals."

The 28 year old is now in his fourth season at Villa Park, but his time in the West Midlands has so far been beset by injury.

O'Neill will be hoping that McCann is now free from injury, and can continue to put in the kind of industrious performances that have helped Villa rise to sixth place in the Premiership.