Aston Villa's James Milner believes his success is down to the quality of players he has played alongside in his early football career.
The winger made his first-team debut for Leeds in 2002 and it was the same season that 16-year-old Milner became the youngest player to score in the Premier League.
Two years later Milner joined Newcastle before being loaned to Aston Villa, where he has since made his move permanent.
And Milner holds his previous team-mates in high regard, citing them as an inspiration in his continued success.
"I feel like I've been able to take different bits from all of them," Milner told the Daily Mail. "At Leeds I was able to work on my finishing with players like Robbie Fowler, Mark Viduka, Alan Smith, Harry Kewell and Robbie Keane.
"Nick Barmby was a great pro. The timing of his runs, getting into the box. Little things like that.
"Gareth Barry here. Unbelievable player. So confident on the ball."
"I'm lucky to have played at three fantastic football clubs, alongside some brilliant players. Watching them every day, working with them every day.
"If you can't improve when you're working with some of the players I've met you're going to struggle."
The 23-year-old has also attracted interest from England manager Fabio Capello after consistently impressing with his Villa and in the Under 21s.
"Obviously it was great to hear what he said," added Milner. "I've not spoken to him yet but his No 2 (Franco Baldini) came along to one of the Under 21 games and told me Mr Capello was aware of me, which was nice to know.
"It's now down to me to keep working hard, keep improving, and try to first force my way in and then stay there."
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