The duo have already struck up a good understanding at Villa Park following Cole's arrival on a season-long loan from Chelsea.

And the 20-year-old, who scored twice in the U21s' recent 3-1 win over Ukraine, would grab the opportunity to play with Vassell for England.

Vassell is already now an experienced international having played in Euro 2004 and the 2002 World Cup, whilst Cole is still learning his trade.

Cole said: "Darius and I off the field are quite close and I have always looked up to him.

"When I saw him playing for England I said that I would like to be up there with him and you never know what might happen in the future.

"Darius and I both have pace, we can get in behind the defences and sometimes I go short and he goes long.

"We just have to mix it up and get the defenders confused.

"I am enjoying my time here and hopefully that will be the case throughout the whole season.

"I want to go out there and score goals and that is my main incentive."