Agbonlahor aims for first England cap by helping Villa go on UEFA Cup run

Striker Agbonlahor has been in outstanding form for the past two seasons since becoming a first team regular under Villa manager Martin O'Neill.  

The 21-year-old was called up by Capello for his first squad as England coach against Switzerland at Wembley in February but had to withdraw through injury.  

Target: Gabriel  Agbonlahor is hoping to impress Capello by playing well for Villa.

Then he was part of the set-up for the end of season friendlies with the United States and Trinidad and Tobago although he did not come off the bench in either game.  

But Agbonlahor is counting on doing well in the UEFA Cup with Villa to enhance his chances of making the breakthrough.  

Agbonlahor said: 'I've had two good seasons but you've got to keep challenging yourself as a player to keep progressing - and hopefully this season I can push on again.  

'Playing in Europe is a big boost to everyone at Villa but it also means you are playing against different systems and players which presents a challenge in itself. 

'You play against quality players in the Premier League but Europe will be different again.  

'If I can play a bit in Europe this season, hopefully it will help me stay in the England squad and that I can win the first cap.

'Ashley (Young) has had his first caps and I would love the same if I can impress the coach.  

'I think European football will be that next step. We're ready to make that step as a team.

'The players who have tasted Europe before want to taste it again and the rest of us want it for the first time.'