Vassell in for Villa reserves

England striker Darius Vassell made a goalscoring comeback for Aston Villa with a late equaliser for the reserves against Manchester United at Bescot Stadium.

Vassell came on for the final half hour, his first action since breaking his ankle against Fulham at Villa Park in late October.

The player quickly made an impact with the final goal – a close range volley – in an entertaining 4-4 draw.

Vassell has been absent for the past 14 games, during which time Villa have managed a miserly 12 goals.

There was further good news for Villa manager David O’Leary with German international Thomas Hitzlsperger completing an hour in his first appearance since late November.

The midfielder has been absent for the last eight games with a thigh injury sustained against Manchester City at Eastlands.

He was also on target with a typical long-range effort before he was replaced by Vassell on the hour mark.