Villa praying for quick Angel recovery

[andy villa]

Aston Villa's hopes of qualifying for Europe have suffered a setback with striker Juan Pablo Angel facing three weeks out with a knee problem.

The Colombia international is certain to miss Villa's next four matches with Bolton, Chelsea, Newcastle and Middlesbrough.

Angel has scored 21 goals this season but he has been playing with a knee problem for several weeks.

Now the former River Plate player needs to rest after a demanding schedule of three games in seven days - including a World Cup qualifier for his country in Peru - has taken its toll.

Manager David O'Leary said: "Juan Pablo will be out of action for around about three weeks and we are just hoping he might be back for the last couple of games of the season.

"He's had this knee problem for a while and I just think the Colombian trip, the travelling out there, playing the game, travelling back and then playing again so soon afterwards have taken their toll.

"It's a big blow for us because Juan has been excellent for us this season and he has been superb to deal with.

"There have been times before when he has played when I didn't think he would be able to but he has been very committed and I've been delighted with his response since I came here."

Angel could be in contention for the game against Tottenham on 2 May, although it is more realistic he will return for last two matches of the season with Southampton and Manchester United.


*sigh* oh well, looks like wel be missing out on europe this year..... i didnt really want villa to get into europe this year anyway as its too much too soon. but the money would hav been nice.......... we need a bigger squad to deal with the league never mind europe.........