Cahill set for cover
Last updated : 03 March 2006 By Norris Winter
The 20-year-old could be in line to make his Premiership debut against Portsmouth on Saturday as the side continue to be blighted by injuries. Mark Delaney and Martin Laursen are both rule out, while Aaron Hughes and Wilfred Bouma are both rated doubtful and, as if it could not get any worse, captain Olof Mellberg will be suspended at the weekend. Cahill is therefore likely to partner Liam Ridgewell in centre defence and believes he is ready to step up, saying: "I'm not taking anything for granted; even with the injuries and suspensions. But I'd love the chance to play against Portsmouth.
"It would be a dream come true to make my Premiership debut at Villa Park. It's what I’ve been working towards in the last few years and, whenever it happens, it will be special. I've only had one 90-minute game since coming back [from a lengthy lay-off] and ideally I’d have had more. But I’m ready if the gaffer needs me."
