By Paul Brown

Martin O'Neill believes Gabby Agbonlahor has the capabilities to break the 20-goal barrier.

It is almost three decades since a claret and blue star netted that many league goals in a season - Peter Withe in 1981.

Hitman Agbonlahor has now struck 12 times with 10 coming in the league.

And his boss believes he has the ability to continue his impressive scoring form.

This evening's clash will obviously draw comparisons between Agbonlahor and fellow hotshot Jermain Defoe - with both vying for a place in England's World Cup squad.

But the Villa boss reckons Agbonlahor and Defoe are "totally different players" despite their desire to score goals.

He said: "It sounds a wee bit strange to say but they are two totally different players.

"Gabby has other strengths. Defoe is as good a goalscorer as is in the Premier League and if you're talking about the top echelons of the Premier League then you're talking about European football.

"He scores goals, he looks to score goals, he's a natural finisher. And I think he always had been, since his early days at West Ham, I think he's always been a natural goalscorer.

"I think Gabby's two goals against Fulham - the second in particular - will have given him great confidence.

"I think he can score more goals - I think he is capable. He also has other aspects to his game - he is very strong now in hold up play and bringing other players into it. I think he learned that from playing about three months up on his own last season.

"So they are different types of player - even though they have the same aim of trying to score goals.

"I think Gabby is particularly pleased with his goal haul at this minute and I think he is capable of going on and getting the 20 league goals."

Cheer the hotshot on in the clash with Burnley - click below.