The Villa Times 12/07/05

Not for the want of looking, all is quiet on the Villa front at the moment. Could be good news, usually when it goes quiet things are actually happening.

Laursen has promised we will see more of him next season, although rather ominously also mentions that his knee is still sore. Lets hope the rumours that his career may be halted prematurely are proved unfounded. 'I'm in the gym every day undergoing a full weights programme indoors, and I'm also running once a day. The knee is sore sometimes, and I am not ready to train twice a day with the rest of the squad. But I am happy with how things are going and will soon be ready to step things up. The Villa fans will see the real me next season.'

Crouch is being linked to a £7million move to Liverpool but Southampton chairman Lowe has denied any approaches.

Icbrum amongst others say Villa are still after a defender - with Distin continuously linked - and an unnamed striker.

Reports are linking Newcastle, Everton and Villa to a move for PSV and South Korean full back Lee Young-pyo.

Aitkin is confident we can mount a challenge for the top 6 next season.

Eirik Bakke has distanced himself from rumours of a move to Villa or Small Heath saying he wants to restore Leeds to their rightful place. There rightful place is............................ (Please fill in yourself, I'm too hot to be nasty!)

29 year old Sorenson is after a new contract and a longer stay at Villa. He currently has a year left on his 3 year deal.

Angel is talking about achieving his 'dream' and helping Villa qualify for Europe. Not the qualifying we need to worry about, it is the competing when we get there that should fill our thoughts!?

Barry is looking forward to the competition for places and says 'It's added competition and, me included, you need players coming in to keep you on your toes. That will only improve my game as well as all the other players'. 'This year has gone but there are rumours of money there to get new players - hopefully that can turn us into challengers. 'We need big signings to liven the place up and get the players who have been here a while on their toes.'

Aston Villa have reportedly taken 18 year old Spanish starlet Ruben Corcobado Soto to Bodymoor to train with Villa for a week. Ruben, who played most of last season with Numancia B (+ first team) is delighted at the chance and hopes to seal a permanent move: 'For me this is a fantastic chance, but the decision will be made by the English coaches,'

Tickets for the pre-season trip to Wolves (July 30) are on priority sale. Tickets for the trip to Wycombe (July 18) are already on general sale. I've a cd on ebay also on sale but I guess that isn't so relevant here?

Small Heath director Gold started saying Blues were going to be the biggest club Birmingham, but do we really care what he thinks? No, didn't think so. Good, saves me typing anymore.

Yet another bright prospect looks to be leaving, this time 21 year old goalkeeper Wayne Henderson who is having a week long trial at Bristol City. He is available on a free transfer.

Thought for the day: How do you tell when you're out of invisible ink?