Source: SKY_Sports
Sidwell concern for Villa
Aston Villa midfielder Steve Sidwell is struggling to be fit for the club's Premier League trip to Blackburn Rovers on Saturday.
Sidwell was named as a substitute for Wednesday night's Carling Cup tie against Cardiff City, but hurt his thigh in the warm-up.
He is now a concern for the game at Ewood Park, with Villa boss Martin O'Neill hoping the in-form 26-year-old will be available to face Blackburn.
"I've got a bit of concern with Steve Sidwell. He played splendidly against Portsmouth on Saturday," said O'Neill.
"I was going to keep him back on the subs bench against Cardiff, but in the warm-up he felt his thigh.
"Even though he was down as a sub on the list, he could not have come on.
"It was getting sore as he was on the bench so that is a bit of a concern."
Emile Heskey and Ashley Young sat out the win over Cardiff due to ankle and calf problems respectively, but O'Neill is optimistic the attacking duo will be in his plans against Blackburn.
O'Neill added: "Ashley got a kick in the lower part of the calf that was pretty sore. It happened during the Portsmouth game although he was able to continue.
"But I'm hoping Ashley and Emile will be available. They've done a bit of work."
