By Paul Brown

Much has been made of Gabby Agbonlahor and Ashley Young this past week, with a host of respected names in the game tipping them for greatness with Villa and England.

Fabio Capello pinpointed Agbonlahor as a young star to take his England team forward in the coming years, after the frustrating World Cup campaign.

Harry Redknapp, meanwhile, has hailed Young as a talismanic winger who must be given a chance to shine on the international stage.

These are opinions long held by manager Martin O'Neill, who has regularly praised the pair for their youthful dynamism in attacking positions.

But two former Villa men have come forward with ringing endorsements for another key player who is vital for continued progress made under O'Neill.

Mark Bosnich and Dwight Yorke both believe veteran goalkeeper Brad Friedel's experience will be just as important for Villa next season.

Bosnich insists Friedel will be a key man as Villa strive to impress while Yorke picked out the stopper's professionalism and drive to succeed as strong aspects in his personality - and vital ingredients for Villa.

Former number one Bosnich first realised the current custodian's class in the 1992 Olympics, with Friedel starring for the USA in the showpiece event.

Bosnich says Friedel has since matured into an "outstanding" number one and a crucial member of the squad.

He said: "Brad's appearance record is a super achievement but he has always been a very talented goalkeeper.

"I can remember watching him play for the USA in the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona when I was with Australia. I remember talking to my then-agent Graham Smith and saying 'this boy is really talented.'

"He then arrived at Liverpool, had a bit of a tough time, but since then his form for Blackburn and Villa has been absolutely outstanding.

"He is like a fine wine - as he's got older he's got better and better. Fair play, even when I first saw him he was very talented and he's developed brilliantly."

Yorke, meanwhile, is a big pal of Friedel, having played with him at Blackburn.

And he has seen first-hand the big man's desire to be the best and always strive to do better.

He added: "I got to know Brad very well over the years. "We lived in the Manchester area and played for Blackburn.

"Some players mature with age and Brad is one those. He has matured into one of the finest goalkeepers in the Premier League - and has been for a number of years.

"He keeps himself extremely fit and he lives his life very professionally. Brad is a family man and I think all that helps to improving your game and certainly he has done that.

"Some players get old and go by the wayside and it doesn't surprise me how well he has done over the years.

"It's all within the individual - you know what it takes. He is 39 this year and he could sit back and pick up his money.

"But it's not all about money - you want success and you want to be the best. You have to have a certain kind of character within you to achieve that and Brad has got that desire.

"He still wants to be the best and he wants to play in every game."