Aston Villa FC

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Harewood talk worries O'Neill

03 Dec 2008 - 15:44:27

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Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill has attempted to downplay the continuing speculation surrounding Marlon Harewood's future.

The 29-year-old has been linked with both West Bromwich Albion and Stoke City in recent weeks, having struggled to make his mark at Villa Park.

However, O'Neill told the Express & Star: "The speculation isn't coming from me. I just don't know.

"I don't want to be making absolute statements and then find out you're eating a fair dose of humble pie about two days later."

Harewood, who has scored seven goals in 35 appearances for Villa, will feature in the UEFA Cup tie with MSK Zilina, with O'Neill adding: "I don't want to be putting undue pressure on him but he will come in.

"He's fresh now and raring to go. His enthusiasm should be at its peak."

Meanwhile, O'Neill has confirmed that he will try and bolster his squad in the January transfer window, if the right players become available.

He added: "We'll try and improve the squad if we can, but if you asked any Premier League manager the same question, everybody's going to have a look at it.

"Who knows what may happen, but I'm sure that we'll try and improve our squad if at all possible."