Villa fan here, in nothing but peace!
Milner had a very good season last year, and had a "few" outstanding games. But he was guaranteed to play every single minute, of every single game, in his favourite position (thanks for that Mr O'Neill), so was able to be consistently good.
As Mancini stated when he bought Milner, he bought an English player who can play well in a number of position. Citeh, in my opinion, should be buying world class players who are specialists in their position, not jack of all trades, and master of none, which in my opinion Milner is.
As for Stevie Ireland, he's had an inconsistent start. Partly due to injuries and partly due to the emergence of Albrighton (who ive no doubt you'll be buying in a years time!).
To conclude, Milner is no way near good enough for a team who can tempt Silva from Valencia, Toure from Barca and Balotelli from Inter. Youre buying the best in the world, from the best teams in the world, Milner will never be near that.
For what its worth, I want to see City in the Champions League, as im bored of the normal top 4, (loving History FC's demise), and would love to see Fergie and his red nose follow suit.