O’Leary makes Milner top priority as Villa sign off on winning note

ASTON VILLA manager David O’Leary will make the future of James Milner his top priority after watching his side end their disappointing season with a win over Sunderland.

Milner produced most of the rare moments of quality in Villa’s 2-1 win but his Villa Park future is now in doubt as he heads back to Newcastle at the end of his season-long loan.

O’Leary, having spoken to the Magpies said he is “hopeful” a deal can be struck. “I hope I can get that deal done for starters. I already regard James as a Villa player. The boy wants to come here and I think Newcastle want to do a deal,” he said.