Aston Villa star James Milner to put aside old loyalties to Newcastle

May 24 2009 by Mathew Kendrick, Sunday Mercury

JAMES Milner’s lasting loyalty to Newcastle will not prevent the Aston Villa winger from trying to relegate the troubled Toon Army, according to Martin O’Neill.

Milner could kick his former club while they are down by contributing to a Villa victory which condemns Alan Shearer and Co to the Championship today.

O’Neill revealed that Milner still has great affection for Newcastle despite quitting St James’ Park to join Villa for £12million plus last August.

But the manager insists the England under-21 star won’t let sentiment get in the way of a home win which could clinch a fifth place finish for Villa.

“I think James will definitely feel for the football club because, let’s make no bones about this, he’s got a great affinity to Newcastle United,” said O’Neill.

“It wasn’t easy for him to leave.