Laursen delighted by progress

Aug 5 2006 By Bill Howell, Birmingham Mail

INJURY-plagued defender Martin Laursen feels he is walking on air with the success of his comeback to date - although he insists he will take no chances.

The Danish international won his race to be fit for Villa's pre-season trip to Germany and Holland which kicks-off this afternoon in Hannover.

Laursen, who made his return to action at Chasetown with a 45-minute run-out on Monday, was named in a 21-man squad for the three-game tour.

Also in the squad was Mark Delaney, who has not kicked in a ball in anger in almost six months since injuring knee ligaments against Manchester City in February.

Laursen's inclusion was a huge boost to the 28-year-old who has spent a full year in Bologna recuperating from a career-saving operation last autumn at the hands of top surgeon Dr Richard Steadman.

"I want people to know how well my knee felt because I was happy with it. I didn't think about making challenges because it didn't hurt - I had no problems playing so I'm happy and satisfied.

"Twisting, turning, heading and clearing - I don't feel any problems, which is very important. Those are the things that will put pressure on the knee but it felt good and I think it will feel good tomorrow as well.

"We have to see the reaction but I'm not concerned about that because I think I'll be fine.

"This was another hurdle I've overcome and it was a big psychological one to play a match. I felt good on the pitch and this was a big thing for me - I've trained but this was my first match and I'm happy.

"There is no substitute for playing in a match - training is one thing but this was another. This was a reserve match and the next step is to play with the first team and I'm looking forward to that."

Laursen added: "I would like to think of (playing against) Arsenal but I won't set a date on my comeback.

"I would definitely like to be in contention - that would be great for me but I don't want to set any time on it."

Unlucky trio Steven Davis, Patrik Berger (calf) and Milan Baros (foot) will miss the tour as they stay behind for treatment.

Davis picked-up a thigh strain in the 3-0 victory at Wolves, but had hoped to recover in time for the two games in Holland.

Mathieu Berson and Cameroon international midfielder Eric Djemba-Djemba will also travel.

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