Aston Villa boss tries to toughen side

Apr 22 2009 by Bill Howell, Birmingham Mail

“I believe we have the wherewithal but Laursen has been a severe loss to us at an important stage in the season where he could have steadied things considering the other players around him are a bit young.”

Villa travel to Bolton on Saturday looking for the win that would mean a club record-equalling 11 wins on the road in a season in the top flight.

“We need to just go and win a game. We are capable of doing that and whether it’s at home or away,” O’Neill said.

“The players’ confidence is still high and the irony of it all is that we have enjoyed it.”

Gabby Agbonlahor is in line to return to the first-team squad at the Reebok after missing the 1-1 draw with West Ham due to a hamstring injury picked up against Everton.

O’Neill added: “Gabby has done a little bit of training. He’s feeling a wee bit better.

“We will see how he develops during the course of the week.

“We are hoping he might have a chance (for Bolton) but we’re not sure yet. He’s a quick healer so we’re hopeful.”