Midfielder Craig Gardner is backing his younger brother Gary to follow in his footsteps and become a first-team squad member at Aston Villa.

Gardner junior, who also plays in the centre of the park, is five years younger than 22-year-old Craig.

The duo played together for the first time in a midweek reserve clash against Wolves with Gardner having a goal set up by Gary.

England Under-21 international Craig said: "Gary sometimes asks me about his game and I tell him what I have done to get where I am now.

"I've told him he should keep his feet on the ground and, if he does that, I'm sure he will get his chance because the manager (Martin O'Neill) encourages the young lads.

"Gary flew out to Spain for the Peace Cup pre-season and loved every minute of it.

"He's strong, he's good with both feet and he's a quick thinker. He's a good lad and a great professional. Believe me, he will go far."

Gardner believes Gary has all the all-round game needed to succeed.

He said: "You sometimes watch young players who look impressive because they can do one trick.

"But Gary is different because he can turn it on for the whole 90 minutes with his his passing and his shooting and he's got a good touch."