Source: SKY_Sports
O'Neill waiting on Laursen
Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill will leave Martin Laursen to make his own mind up regarding his future.
The centre-half is believed to be weighing up his options after suffering another lengthy injury setback this season.
The Danish defender has been blighted by knee problems throughout his career and appears to be struggling to cope with the rigours of top-level football.
Laursen has recently sought the advice of medical specialists as he attempts to discover the full extent of his latest problem.
The outcome of those discussions are not yet known, but reports continue to suggest that the 30-year-old may be forced to hang up his boots.
O'Neill has refused to confirm or deny those rumours, choosing instead to leave any decision in the hands of his skipper.
He said: "The news on him is not great. Martin is deliberating on what to do. We were hoping that he could recover but he is having a tough time.
"But he will make the decision and, whatever decision he comes to, I will respect with the utmost regard.
"He has already seen a specialist and now has to make up his mind."
Healing
Laursen has been out of action since January, suffering a setback in his rehabilitation during a training break in Dubai.
His absence has coincided with Villa's alarming loss of form which has seen them drop out of the race for UEFA Champions League qualification.
They are, however, still on course to secure a top-five finish in the Premier League and could be boosted this weekend at Bolton by the return of England international Gabriel Agbonlahor.
O'Neill said: "Gabby has done a little bit of training. He's feeling a wee bit better. We will see how he develops during the course of the week.
"We are hoping he might have a chance (for Saturday) but we're not sure yet. He's a quick healer so we're hopeful."
