O'Neill knows this campaign will be vital as they all search for the form that would ensure their participation in the 2010 World Cup finals.

The likes of Gabby Agbonlahor, James Milner and Ashley Young are on the fringes of Fabio Capello's senior squad.

And O'Neill thinks that the slightest improvement in quality next season could be all they need to make the plane to South Africa.

extra improvement

He told the club's official website: "It will be a big season for the England lads. They want to get on that plane to South Africa. I think James, Ashley, Gabby will be very excited by the season ahead. They will want to improve.

"It's that extra percentage of improvement that could make the difference for them. Will they sustain their levels or can they go up again?

"It was great for Ashley to come up against Andorra and he will be delighted - his confidence will be very high.

"For the likes of Gabby and James - who are on the verge of the full squad - that extra improvement could impress the England manager.

"That's what they have to do. I think all three are capable of doing that."

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