Key Man Missing?

Last updated : 04 January 2010 By Tom Vickers

James Milner is a major doubt for Villa's Carling Cup semi-final first-leg at Ewood Park tomorrow night.

The versatile midfield maestro missed the FA Cup win against Blackburn on Saturday with a foot injury and he may now be ruled out of the second of a hat-trick of clashes against Rovers this month.

Milner's injury has meant he has only been able to take part in light training in the build up to one of the biggest matches in recent Claret and Blue history.

Villa fans will be desperate to see their England star start at Ewood because he provides the spark in the middle of the park.

Milner was a massive influence on the 4-2 win at Portsmouth in the last round as he netted with a super strike, which put his side ahead, and they never looked back.

Should he miss out, though, it is likely that Nigel Reo-Coker will come into the midfield with Ashley Young and Stewart Downing occupying the flanks.

Stiliyan Petrov, Gabby Agbonlahor and Richard Dunne will all be recalled after being rested for Saturday's win.