Villa win Young race

Last updated : 23 January 2007 By Pancho Villa

The 21-year-old left winger has signed a four-and-a-half year contract at Villa Park, choosing Martin O'Neill's side ahead of West Ham who reportedly offered the England Under-21 left-winger an identical deal, which is partly based on appearances. Young agreed a long-term deal with Watford in January 2006 but his performances for the team on their return to the top flight this season attracted a number of clubs and O'Neill was delighted to have won the race, saying: "Ashley is a really talented player. I have seen a lot of him and I am going to back my judgement."