Gardner out for fortnight

Aston Villa midfielder Craig Gardner has been ruled out of action for two weeks after sustaining a groin injury during Tuesday’s goalless draw with Chelsea.

Gardner, 20, was forced out of action mid-way through the first half and will miss the FA Cup and Barclays Premiership clashes with Manchester United during the next 10 days.

Villa boss Martin O’Neill confirmed: “Gardner has got a groin problem and it looks as if he will be out for a couple of weeks.

“The medical staff are assessing it at the moment. It’s unfortunate but he’s hopefully not out for as long as we first feared.

“It’s a shame for Craig who has been doing really well. He’s refreshing, young, wants to get into the side and he wants to do really well. He’s made a very favourable impression on the team and myself.”