Source: SKY_Sports
O'Neill doubtful over skipper
Aston Villa manager Martin O'Neill admits that the future for injured skipper Martin Laursen does not look good.[LNB] The defender has been sidelined for most of the second half of the season with a knee injury with reports that the 31-year-old will have to retire as a consequence surfacing recently.[LNB]The former AC Milan ace has suffered with persistent knee problems throughout his career and is said to be close to calling it a day.[LNB]The Villa boss said as much on Friday but added that he would know more about the situation next week.[LNB]"Martin is pretty despondent about things. I will definitely let you know next week," he said.[LNB]"He is not great. He is a major loss."[LNB]ImprovementsWith the probable loss of the Danish international O'Neill is aware he must strengthen his side in the summer if they are to improve on this season's showing.[LNB]"If we are going to keep going in the way we are doing, then we will be trying to improve the side," he added.[LNB]"It will not be easy next season. Manchester City will be very strong. They have got the wherewithal and the financial clout to do something about it.[LNB]"Tottenham Hotspur spent big in the January just to get out of trouble so you can imagine, with the hope and expectation of Harry Redknapp going there, that they will have the wherewithal.[LNB]"I really think this summer will be very important indeed and also very difficult.[LNB]"Myself and Randy (Lerner) will speak. If it is not this week, it will be the week after. We will get a chance the next time he is over from America."[LNB]
