Major Boost With Injured Duo Return

Well rent a bike and cycle with joy, there is someone real footballing news to talk about! Ok, it isn't a new chairman, owners or a new signing. It isn't even a hint of a chance of a possible rumour of a new player incoming, but at least it relates to the current squad in an optimistic way. Hey, when you are fed with scraps, you take what you can get don't you?

Northern Ireland and Villa midfielder Steven Davis has told the official site of his delight that both defender Martin Laursen and long forgotten midfielder Patrik Berger are fit again and involved in the pre-season preparations.

Laursen was only able to play one game before sustaining a career threatening injury to his knee last season and Berger didn't fair a whole lot better with just nine appearances.

Davis says their return is a major boost. Doug will no doubt let us know soon that they are like two new signings, although to be fair, it is great news if they can both return and remain fit. IF. If they don't, as David O'Leary found last season to his cost (although not his surprise I'm sure) there will be limited contingency plans in place.
Davis told the official site: 'It's a big boost to have them back. They missed most of last season through injury, but they're quality players and it is a boost to have them back. We need that competition. It pushes every player and it can only be good for the squad.'

He also says the team have to improve on last seasons awful home form adding 'We need to show we mean business early on.'

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