Jenas debut delay for Villa

19 October 2011 10:49
Aston Villa boss Alex McLeish admits on loan midfielder Jermaine Jenas is still "three or four games away" from being ready to make his debut.[LNB] Jenas made the temporary switch from Tottenham to Villa Park on transfer deadline day in August.[LNB]But the former England international was initially laid low by a thigh injury and then an Achilles problem.[LNB]Jenas has been given the green light to step up his rehabilitation work after seeing a specialist on Monday but is still some way from being available for selection.[LNB]McLeish said: "I certainly know from the club doctor that he's not as bad as we first feared.[LNB]"But the only disadvantage Jermaine has is that he's short of match fitness which he won't get until he starts playing games.[LNB]"I would have thought he's three or four games away yet. He's gutted about it."[LNB]McLeish is optimistic defender James Collins will be available for Saturday's home derby clash with West Brom.[LNB]The Wales international missed the 4-1 defeat at Manchester City at the weekend with a groin problem.[LNB]McLeish said: "He has done some individual work this week and we believe he will be ready to join in with the group on Thursday."

Source: Team_Talk