Villa manager Graham Taylor is keen to tie up the services of Vassell - who joined the club as a schoolboy 10 years ago - on a long-term contract which benefits his newly-found international status.

Vassell, who turns 22 later this month, scored 14 goals in his first full season of Barclaycard Premiership action with Villa and has now continued that form with England.

He netted on his debut for his country against Holland in Amsterdam in February and three goals in four starts secured his place in the World Cup squad.

Vassell, who started the opening game with Sweden last weekend, confirmed: ‘‘Villa have approached my agents about a new contract.

‘‘But nothing has happened yet and the situation is that we will talk more after the World Cup.’’

Meanwhile, England number two Steve McClaren has hailed the massive strides that midfielder Nicky Butt has made in his game during the past 12 months.

Butt established himself as a key player with Manchester United and England, only for a knee injury - from which he has now recovered - to hamper his chances of making an early impact in the World Cup.

McClaren, who worked with Butt when first-team coach at Old Trafford, said: ‘‘He has certainly matured over the last season or so.

‘‘He is more disciplined in his performances and he has matured into a very good midfield player.

‘‘His displays have been very good for Manchester United and, when he’s played for England, he’s also played very well.

‘‘He’s progressed and I feel a little sorry for him because he picked up that knee injury before the World Cup build-up started, which just held him back a bit.

‘‘But he is fit again now and a very important member of the plans.’’