Laursen makes progress

Aston Villa centre-back Martin Laursen is confident he will eventually resume his career following major knee surgery earlier in the season.

There has been speculation the Denmark international will have to hang up his boots after being dogged by knee setbacks since signing from AC Milan 17 months ago.

But the 28-year-old has given Villa boss David O’Leary an encouraging progress report after seeing world renowned surgeon Dr Richard Steadman in Colorado.

Laursen told the Birmingham Mail: “Everything is fine. The knee is good. Doctor Steadman is very happy with my progress and that was very positive.

“Everyone is happy. I don’t know yet when I will be back playing. I am taking one day at a time but I have no doubts in my mind about playing again.

“I am sure I will be back. I’m very positive about that. The knee is good and I am confident.”

Laursen is undergoing his rehabilitation at a training base in Bologna.

He added: “I’m very happy to be there doing gym and pool work. It is a centre that allows me to fully concentrate on working and getting myself right and I feel great.”