Stan needs hernia op

Last updated : 30 December 2002 By VillaMAD

"The chances are that Steve will need a hernia operation. He has tried to play through it but it is likely he will need surgery.

"He is likely to need it sooner rather than later," said the Villa boss.

Staunton admitted: "It's got to the stage where I need to get something done and hopefully we can get it sorted out this week.

"We are probably talking about two or three weeks before I can get back."