McNulty joined Brighton from Stockport in February 2009

Brighton defender Jim McNulty is keen to pit his wits against Aston Villa's England internationals in the FA Cup fourth round.

The 24-year-old hopes Martin O'Neill selects Ashley Young, Stewart Downing and James Milner for Saturday's game.

He told BBC Surrey: "It's brilliant, I can't wait. Fingers crossed I'll get the nod to start.

"I hope they do put the England wingers out. These are the players you want to test yourself against."

He added: "What a great pitch Villa Park is, it's a big pitch, lovely surface, so I'm just hoping we go there, play football and don't get overawed.

"Hopefully we can use the pitch and atmosphere to pass the ball and show we can play."

McNulty's family are also looking forward to Saturday's trip.

"It's just as big for them as it is for me," he said. "They're the grounds that my dad wanted to see me play in when he was taking me to training two or three nights a week when I was a boy so it's massive for him as well."

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