Martin O’Neill believes Stewart Downing will battle Gareth Barry for a place in the England team.

Barry left Aston Villa for Manchester City in a £12million deal earlier this summer, and O’Neill paid a similar amount to take Downing from Middlesbrough.

Whilst not considered a direct replacement, the Villa boss believes the former Boro favourite can play in a number of positions, which could threaten Barry’s place in Fabio Capello’s plans.

"I can see Downing playing in a number of positions," O'Neill told the Daily Express. "He can play wide left or wide right, he can play centrally and he can play off the strikers, which he has done many times.

"If Downing plays centrally he could become a contender with Gareth Barry. I know from previous reports the England manager is particularly happy with Stewart.

“Downing is doing very well, but won't be fit for some time. He gets the pin out in September and then we will have a better idea when Downing will be back."