News of the World: Stiliyan Petrov can expect a two-year contract extension to end his career at Aston Villa. This season was billed as make-or-break for Petrov but boss Martin O'Neill, who has tied up John Carew and Gabby Agbonlahor on new deals, is eager to retain his services.

Sunday Mercury: Nicky Shorey admits Aston Villa have helped him realise his burning ambition to play in Europe - after the closest he got at Reading was setting fire to his continental hotel room. Shorey was given a quick-fire introduction to UEFA Cup football when he made his debut in last month's qualifying first round clash against FH Hafnarfjordur in Iceland. And, although the diminutive defender briefly went into meltdown during his below-par claret and blue bow, the Villa Park faithful are starting to warm to their new left-back. But Shorey, who was a fans' favourite in his seven years at the Madejski Stadium, has revealed that the hottest reception he ever received was during a pre-season trip to Sweden. The former Leyton Orient left-footer and ex-Royals team-mate Darius Henderson accidentally sparked a fire in their hotel room during a particular hot summer.

Setanta Sports: Ashley Young has insisted that he will not allow himself to be discouraged by his surprise omission from Fabio Capello's England squad for the World Cup qualifiers against Andorra and Croatia. The winger has consistently performed well for Martin O'Neill's side, but he is clearly yet to make a significant impression upon his Italian manager at international level. However, Young remains undeterred by his absence from the national squad and believes that his time will come soon enough if he manages to maintain his form for Villa in the Premier League.

Sunday Mercury: Curtis Davies is convinced that he pull on an England shirt one day but believes he faces a stiffer test than Villa's other budding Lions. England's midfield may be a hugely competitive area for Fabio Capello but Davies believes the middle of the park isn't a patch on what's going on at the back. Because when it comes to centre-halves, the former Luton trainee believes there's no tougher place to earn an England call.

Setanta Sports: Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill feels Stiliyan Petrov has played himself into contention for a new contract. The former Celtic midfielder has taken time to adjust to The Premier League as he has been asked to take on more defensive responsibilities, but he started to settle in towards the end of last season and has continued to impress in the new campaign. And O'Neill has hinted that the Bulgaria international could be set for an improved deal if he can maintain his form.

Mail on Sunday: James Milner is pleased to have escaped the chaos at Newcastle after tiring of the club's instability. The 22-year-old, who joined Aston Villa days before the transfer window closed, wants the novelty of a season without the prospect of managerial upheaval. But he feels sorry for the players and fans at St James Park.