ONE man’s loss and all that can only be good news for another.

So while Marek Cech recovers from a badly bruised leg, his place at left-back will go to Nicky Shorey.

The ex-Villa defender was dropped following a poor performance, although his omission surprised many given his decent and consistent form up until then.

In any case, the 29-year-old is now determined to prove himself all over again – starting in today’s FA Cup third-round clash at former club Reading.

“Obviously it’s frustrating,” said Shorey.

“I was at Villa before and had the same there so I am getting used to it now.

“You just have to get your head down and keep working hard.

“I’m not going to go into things like why I was dropped.

“It stays behind closed doors – for me and the manager to sort out.

“I’m obviously disappointed to not be in the team.