Dunne facing fitness fight

Aston Villa central defender Richard Dunne is battling to be fit for new manager Gerard Houllier's first official match in charge.Dunne limped out of Saturday's 1-1 home draw with Bolton at half-time with a knee injury. The Republic Of Ireland international now faces a race to be available for Wednesday's Carling Cup tie with Blackburn at Villa Park.Kevin MacDonald, who has been caretaker boss for the opening seven games of the season following the resignation of Martin O'Neill, said: "Richard got a bang on the knee last Monday and did well to actually play against Bolton."It's too early to say whether he'll be fit for Wednesday."