Villa wait on Carew

Posted Thursday, August 27, 2009 by PA

Striker John Carew could return for Aston Villa for Thursday night's Europa League clash against Rapid Vienna at Villa Park.

Norway international Carew has yet to feature for Villa this season because of injury.

He missed the first game against Wigan with an infected toe and sat out the 1-0 defeat against Vienna in the first leg and Monday's 3-1 win against Liverpool with a virus.

But he has been able to do some training this week and will have a late fitness test.

Villa will also check on the fitness of winger Ashley Young who twisted his knee against Liverpool. He was withdrawn 10 minutes before the end of the game but is optimistic about being available.

Full-back Luke Young, who has been on compassionate leave following the death of his brother, has resumed training but seems unlikely to figure.

Villa central defender Curtis Davies has told the club's supporters they have a crucial role to play on Thursday night.

Martin O'Neill's side were booed off in their only appearance at Villa Park so far this season against Wigan.

But the win against Liverpool at Anfield has revitalised everyone at Villa Park and now Davies is banking on Villa overturning their deficit and getting past Vienna.

Davies, on a personal high after his goal at Liverpool, said: "Over in Austria there was a brilliant atmosphere. I've heard people say it's intimidating, but that's football.

"These are the games you want to play in. I know people go to massive European clubs and taste the atmosphere, but that was as good an atmosphere as I've played in.

"The fans behind one goal were quality, it really lifted the game, especially with them scoring in the first minute, and they were singing from the first minute all the way to the 90th minute.

"It would be a boost if we can create something similar. If we can get the first goal we can get the crowd behind us early doors.

"Hopefully we've got enough in our locker to get the two goals we need and keep a clean sheet to go through."

Davies, whose slip let in Vienna to score their goal after just 16 seconds, is convinced Villa will make home advantage pay.

He added: "It was a frustrating night all round in Vienna. Because they were in such a set formation and were happy for us to play the ball in front of them, it was hard to break them down.

"Hopefully, come Villa Park, with a bit of a bigger pitch we can move the ball around better and get the two goals that we need to get through."