Liverpool and Manchester United target Ashley Young: I want to play in the Champions League

Ashley Young, Aston Villa (Getty Images)

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Aston Villa midfielder Ashley Young has put Liverpool and Manchester United on red alert by admitting he wants to play in the biggest competitions and revealing he will be seeking talks with his club over his future.

The 25-year-old has enjoyed another impressive campaign for Villa, and his pace, skill and attacking versatility has also seen him become a regular presence in Fabio Capello’s recent England squads.

The midlands club are understandably not keen on parting with their prized asset, but with Young only having 12 months left on his current contract and so far unwilling to commit to a new deal, they appear resigned to losing him this summer.

Young’s future has been the subject of speculation for months, with both Manchester United and Liverpool reportedly keeping tabs on his progress, although Goal.com understands that Kenny Dalglish’s side are currently in pole position to sign him.

The player has now fuelled rumours of his imminent departure by admitting he desires to play in the biggest competitions, and revealing he wished he had been playing in Saturday’s Champions League final rather than watching it at home.

“I have never doubted my ability,” Young told reporters. “My opinion is that I can play in the biggest and best competitions.

“I always want to challenge myself. To challenge myself is to play in them big competitions – hopefully one day I will be able to do that.

“I watched Saturday’s game as a player that wished I was out there playing. As a kid you always want to play in the biggest competitions. I was no different.

“Of course Barcelona are the best team but, for Manchester United to get to the Champions League final as well, it must mean that we have got teams in this country that can match the best in Europe.”

Young also revealed he hopes to sort out his future by talking to Villa after England’s Euro 2012 qualifier against Switzerland on Saturday, where he is a likely starter.

“I have always said I am going to talk to the chairman and manager after this game,” he added.

“I have given 100% in every game I have played for Aston Villa. I am away with England now and my focus is fully on Switzerland.

“We know it is going to be a massive game but it is always nice to have speculation.”

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