Laursen regrets rushing return

Aston Villa captain Martin Laursen has admitted he is paying the price for rushing his comeback from a knee injury. The defender, who has a history of knee problems, has been sidelined with the injury since January and underwent surgery in a bid to cure the issue.Laursen, though, suffered a setback in his rehabilitation during Villa's recent trip to Dubai and his proposed comeback against Manchester United on 5th April remains in the balance.The Dane said: "I had a problem with my knee on the second day of training out in Dubai and it was a real blow after my recovery seemed to be coming along so well."It's been so frustrating because I am desperate to play again, but I've realised that you can't rush back from injuries like this."I think I possibly tried to do too much so it will be a case of taking things more slowly this time."Meanwhile, manager Martin O'Neill is relieved keeper Brad Friedel's red card against Liverpool has been rescinded by a Football Association panel after Villa lodged an appeal.Friedel will now not have to serve a one-match ban and will be available to play against Manchester United at Old Trafford on 5th April.O'Neill said: "I'm delighted for Brad and pleased with the decision overall. From Brad's viewpoint I don't think he went out and made a deliberate attempt to upend him [Fernando Torres]."

Source: SKY_Sports