Laursen Set To Delay Return?

Last updated : 26 March 2009 By Tom Vickers
It could be a case of once bitten twice shy for Martin Laursen as he nears his comeback from a long term injury.

The Danish centre back has been ruled out with a knee injury since Villa beat West Brom 2-1 on January 10 and prior to that game he was missing for three weeks.

By playing in the match against the Baggies, Laursen aggravated the problem and it has kept him out of plenty of key games which he would have thrived upon and no doubt excelled in.

The former AC Milan man has been on the comeback trail and stepped up his recovery recently but he suffered a reaction during Villa's training camp in Dubai.

Although the Claret and Blue could really do with him back, Laursen is now unlikely to return to the starting line-up until he is certain that his recovery is 100 per cent complete.

With a big clash against Manchester United on the horizon (April 5), Villa could be tempted to throw their skipper back into the fray.

But common sense would suggest that the Dane should wait a week and take to the field against Everton because even though United will be missing Wayne Rooney and Paul Scholes, Villa are still likely to be run ragged.

Winnable

Should Laursen really put his knee under the stress of chasing Carlos Tevez and keeping out Cristiano Ronaldo?

So, Martin O'Neill has a decision to make. With Curtis Davies and Carlos Cuellar proving as much use as a pair of chocolate teapots, Laursen is desperately needed.

But is he really going to make much difference at Old Trafford where Villa haven't won since 1983? It's unlikely.

Villa need to consolidate their position in the top five and the Everton game on April 12 is much more winnable.

With Laursen the Claret and Blue can achieve their aims. Maybe they won't be good enough to finish fourth, but a morale boosting end to the season is a must.

A rushed comeback could be the end of Laursen and Villa's campaign, so "Don't risk it Martin" will be the message from the terraces.