Villa youngster Nathan Delfouneso seems destined for greatness.

The talented striker has just been called up to the England under-21 squad for the European Championship clash with Greece next week and it is just the latest in a long line of breakthroughs for the player.

Delfouneso, who has already starred at England under-20 level, has become an ever increasing presence around the Villa first team this season.

He was a used substitute in the 5-2 win over Burnley on Sunday and seems set to start against Crystal Palace on Wednesday night in the FA Cup fifth round replay.

It all suggests that manager Martin O'Neill has real faith in the player and it may not be long before he is ahead of John Carew and Emile Heskey in the pecking order at Villa Park.

Delfouneso has shown some real bright sparks already this season and his appearance from the bench against Palace at Selhurst Park provided a much needed catalyst for O'Neill's toiling team.

He appears to be the perfect foil for number one striking choice Gabby Agbonlahor, who like Delfouneso, is a product of the super successful Villa academy.

The pair could eventually prove potent in Premier League football as goal ace Agbonlahor has raw pace and desire and his young team-mate has a great eye for goal and good ability when it comes to hold up play.

It really is good news for Villa and with both being recognised for their country it seems that O'Neill and the Claret and Blue faithful are not the only ones to see real potential in the duo.

Another golden prospect at the club, Fabian Delph, has also been named in Pearce's squad for the crucial qualifier next week.

Delph, like Delfouneso, has been getting a bit of first team action for Villa recently and he too is tipped for future success.

The former Leeds United youngster has been labelled 'the next Steven Gerrard', so no pressure then Fabian!