Aston Villa: Gabby Agbonlahor hands boost to Villa ahead of Rapid Vienna game

Aug 25 2010 by Mathew Kendrick, Birmingham Mail

FIT-AGAIN Gabby Agbonlahor is raring to ride to Kevin MacDonald’s rescue against Rapid Vienna tomorrow and banish Villa’s Newcastle nightmare.

The Brummie striker has declared himself available for the Europa League qualifier second leg at Villa Park after overcoming a frustrating back/hamstring injury.

Agbonlahor is hoping to start against the Austrians as Villa aim to progress to the group stages following an impressive 1-1 draw in Vienna last week.

Having missed the first three games of the season, Agbonlahor scored during a 45-minute run-out as Villa beat Burton 5-0 in a practice match on Monday.

“It went well,” said Agbonlahor, who is set to return to the squad along with James Collins and Carlos Cuellar after respective calf and hamstring problems.

“I didn’t feel the injury, so hopefully I’ll get a start on Thursday and see how long I can last – if picked.

“It started with the hamstring and then into the back, I think that’s common with a lot of fast players. Hopefully it’s all sorted now, I’ve certainly got no issues from Monday’s practice game.

“I’ve been training but I’ve not been able to play in the games. It’s completely gone now though. I’m not used to this slow start to the season, normally I get a good pre-season. I’ve been struggling since early on in pre-season, which has kept me out until now really.

“It’s taken me a few weeks to get fitness so I’m ready to go – maybe it was a good summer as well!

“I think there’s a few other players coming back as well which is good for the squad and it gives Kev a tough time to pick the team on Thursday and Sunday.”

Agbonlahor would love to announce his return to action with a goal tomorrow night – but insists a positive Europa League result is the priority as Villa are in it to win it.

“I think any goal for a striker is good,” he said.