O'Neill uses Bale's turnaround at Spurs to inspire fringe players

Martin O'Neill has urged Aston Villa's out-of-favour players to take heart from the example of Tottenham full-back Gareth Bale.

The likes of Steve Sidwell, Nigel Reo-Coker, Habib Beye, Nicky Shorey, Luke Young and Curtis Davies will be available to move if the price is right although they all have at least 12 months of their current contracts remaining.

But O'Neill points to Wales international Bale, who re-established himself at White Hart Lane under Harry Redknapp last season, as an example of how quickly situations can change.

He said: "Look at how Harry Redknapp has gone and re-entrusted players again like Gareth Bale. He was out of the picture at Tottenham, then came back into the side and did brilliantly.

"That sort of thing happens at every club and I keep saying this to some of our players who have obviously been disappointed at not playing.

"It changes so quickly. You play really well in a game, you might get unlucky to be left out next time. But then, the second time, there is no reason to be left out and it just goes on from there."

O'Neill admits any player who makes a favourable impression will come under consideration for a place in the starting line-up despite the success of last season. Villa finished sixth in the Premier League, reached the final of the Carling Cup and semi-finals of the FA Cup.

The manager said: "I think the players here last season did remarkably well. Let's take the example of James Milner. He went straight into the midfield and had a season never to forget. But that doesn't mean if another player steps in and does really well in the team, that he can't cement his place."

Villa will not be at full strength when they report back for pre-season training tomorrow. The England trio of Milner, Emile Heskey and Stephen Warnock have been allowed additional time off after their involvement in the World Cup, along with United States goalkeeper Brad Guzan.

Heskey has predicted a "great future" for young Villa striker Nathan Delfouneso, who will spearhead England's attack in the Under-19 European Championships in France this summer.

Heskey believes Delfouneso is an exciting prospect after graduating through the different age levels with his country. Delfouneso has already made an impact at Villa, scoring twice in the Europa League during the 2008-2009 campaign and netting his first Premier League goal last season.

Heskey said: "Nathan has done really well. He has not had that many chances to come on and play but, when he has, he has shown what he is capable of. He is a good player for the future."