Milner has been capped at Under-21 level more than 30 times without landing a senior call.

And following a man-of-the-match display from the former Leeds youngster in last night's 3-2 Carling Cup win at Coventry, Keegan decided it was time to speak up on Milner's behalf.

"Once you have played 30 games for the Under-21s you deserve a crack at the big time," observed Keegan.

"He is as good as, if not better than, some of the lads who have had a chance.

"He is one that Fabio Capello should have a serious look at. Capello needs to talk to a few people. He might not know James, but those around him should."

Milner is being courted by Aston Villa, who had a delegation at the Ricoh Arena ahead of what is likely to be another bid before Monday's transfer deadline. Not that Keegan wants to receive one.

"James has a three-year-contract," he said. "I do not even want to talk about losing him.

"He is absolutely top notch - around the club, around the training ground. He is getting better and better every game."

Milner's future is sure to be one of the topics under discussion when Keegan meets owner Mike Ashley later today.

The future direction of the club needs to be thrashed out, including the possibility of a new contract for Michael Owen.

Once again, Owen proved his predatory powers are still intact, supplying the clinical finish six minutes into extra-time after goals from Clinton Morrison and Scott Danns at the end of each half had wiped out a Newcastle lead Charles N'Zogbia and Milner had combined to supply.

But Keegan is becoming irritated at the failure to extend Owen's St James' Park stay.

"I am not trying to be awkward," he said. "The fact is Michael is a very special player. He is very important to this football club and my vision for it.

"If other people do not share that it is their problem.

"I do not say these things publicly for any other reason than I believe it.

"I know the kind of people you need at a football club. You can wait a lifetime for people who can help take it forward, and he is one.

"My job is to manage the club, and that is what I am trying to do."

Keegan's opposite number Chris Coleman could do nothing but praise his team after their gutsy performance.

"We are disappointed to lose, but the lads deserve a lot of credit for the character they showed," he said. "They answered all my questions and more."