Carew: Milner can replace Beckham for England

John Carew insists his Aston Villa team-mate James Milner will be David Beckham's long-term England successor.

Norwegian striker Carew, 30, is friends with England ace Beckham, who is out of the World Cup after surgery on his Achilles.

And he claims Beckham’s skills and experience will be missed on England’s right of flank.

But he believes Villa midfielder Milner, 24, who notched his 10th goal of the season in the win over Wigan on Tuesday night, is a more than capable replacement.

“I’m very sad for England that David got injured,” said Carew.

“It will be a loss for England not having him in the squad - even if it was to be on the bench, he will still be a loss.

“But James would have been really close to starting anyway, even if Beckham was there.

“He has been amazing for the team this year and the Wigan game was another great performance from him.

“James scored a brilliant goal and he was running everywhere, he was all over the place.

“He will be very important for Aston Villa and very important for England in the years to come.

“It’s great to have him in our team.

“He has great football intelligence. as well as all the skills and ability.

“He is very strong mentally, and his work-rate is amazing.

“Normally players’ legs wouldn’t be like his after the 90 minutes. His work-rate must be one of the best in the league.”