Ghanaian-Born George Boateng tipped for Holland

Aston Villa boss John Gregory says influential midfielder George Boateng is in the best form of his career at Villa Park. Gregory believes that Ghanaian born Boateng, a former Dutch Under-21 skipper, is worthy of international recognition after his outstanding form this season in holding together a struggling Villa side.

He was on the verge of a call-up during his time with Feyenoord but since moving to England, initially with Coventry City, three years ago he has been overlooked by Holland. "George is playing very, very well. I would say he is in his best form since he joined Aston Villa. "You could see when he was suspended for the recent game against Liverpool that we missed him without question.

"He relishes getting the ball back off the opposition and his energy and drive is a big factor in the way we perform as a team. "His partnership with Ian Taylor is also a key factor in why Paul Merson is playing so well because they basically win the ball and give it to him.

"I just hope he gets the chance to show what he is made of at international level." Luis Van Gaal, the former Barcelona and Ajax coach, was appointed as successor to Holland manager Frank Rijkaard last summer.

"I would imagine that Van Gaal knows all about George. He's facing a lot of competition but, because Van Gaal is fairly new to the job, he might be willing to look at George. "If he does get the call-up from Holland then it would be no more than he deserves for some excellent and consistent form."