Craig Gardner fit and raring to go for Aston Villa

Apr 16 2008 By Bill Howell

CRAIG Gardner warmed up for the Blues derby on the golf course with the rest of his Villa team-mates yesterday with Martin O'Neill admitting the young midfielder is: 'chomping at the bit" to play.

Villa held their golf day with Gardner, who has missed the last three games with a thigh injury- very much taking centre stage on the fairways.

O'Neill said: "He got the go-ahead to play in our golf day yesterday which was great for him because he's a brilliant golfer - the best.

"All the lads who play golf got the go-ahead to play."

Gardner is now back in training and although he faces quite an uphill task to break into a winning team, O'Neill has praised his attitude in giving himself a chance.

"Craig trained on Monday which was pleasing and he's chomping at the bit, which is pleasing. We will see how this week goes.

"But he won't do himself more harm than good by rushing back. I'll be guided by the doctor Roddy McDonald who is very pleased with him.

"Craig's ethusiasm and willingness to get out there helps greatly in his rehab. If you're sitting around moping and moaning, you won't be back as quickly as someone who's champing at the bit.

"So let's see how Craig gets on this week but knowing him he will want to declare himself fit for selection."

John Carew appears to have shaken off concerns about his groin.

O'Neill added: "John was a doubt on Friday and didn't even train but he declared himself fit which I was delighted with."

Meanwhile, O'Neill has denied any interest in Bolton 'keeper Jussi Jaaskelainen.

The Villa boss added: "I get letters saying: 'I see we're being linked with this Tom, Dick or Harry and why don't we go for the really big boys?

"I ring them back and say: 'I haven't started the link!".