Aston Villa manager Martin O'Neill wants his star duo back injury-free

Oct 9 2009 by Mathew Kendrick, Birmingham Mail

MARTIN O’Neill is fretting over the safe return of Richard Dunne and James Collins after Villa’s central defensive pairing reported for international duty with injuries.

Dunne linked up with the Republic of Ireland squad and Collins joined up with Wales despite suffering respective ankle and facial problems against Manchester City.

O’Neill admitted that Dunne’s injury was more serious than Collins’ after the duo produced battling displays in Monday night’s pulsating draw at Villa Park.

But the Villa boss is hopeful that the defenders will be able to play for their countries without aggravating the problems ahead of next weekend’s clash with Chelsea.

Ireland face a must-win double header at home to Italy tomorrow and Montenegro on Wednesday to keep their automatic World Cup qualification hopes alive.

Wales, who are out of the running for South Africa, are simply playing for pride with tomorrow’s match in Finland followed by a midweek trip to Liechtenstein.

“Richard Dunne didn’t train earlier in the week,” said O’Neill.

“I’m hoping that is precautionary and that he is available to play for Ireland.

“He was complaining of a sore ankle from a heavy challenge. He continued on in the game but he was a bit sore. He desperately wants to play against Italy. From where we stand I just hope that he is okay.

“James Collins had a blow to his cheekbone and was concerned. His vision was impaired for a second or two, but hopefully he is alright.”

Ireland assistant manager Liam Brady is confident that Dunne will be able to line up for the Group 8 qualifier after returning to full training yesterday.

“I was watching the Villa-Manchester City game at home on television and I closed my eyes,” said Brady.

“Richard picked up a bruised ankle in a challenge with Nigel De Jong

“Both of them came in at the same time and it has jarred Richard’s ankle. It’s a bit bruised but I think he will be okay.”

O’Neill is keeping his fingers crossed that Villa’s international contingent come back to Bodymoor Heath unscathed in a week’s time.

But the Villa boss faces an anxious wait and admits there will be little time to prepare for the lunchtime clash with Chelsea when his players return.

“You’re talking about all these boys on international duty that are playing very heavy duty games,” said O’Neill.

“Of course it will be a concern, it always is.

“The first time I will see them all together will be close to midday next Friday and we have got a kick-off 24 hours later.

“It’s just one of those things. The kick-off in itself isn’t going to make any appreciable difference but it’s the fact you don’t see the players in their entirety until Friday morning.

“I am not alone in this so it’s not a complaint just a fact of life.

“The biggest concern is that anything can happen to them when they are away in these matches. If the team can stay clear of injury then we can improve.”