Carson set to face United

Aston Villa goalkeeper Scott Carson is likely to be fit to face Manchester United on Saturday despite having to pull out of the England squad for the midweek game with France in Paris.

Carson withdrew because of a knee problem and had a precautionary scan which revealed no long-term concerns.

A club spokesman said: “We didn’t think it was anything serious but, after consultation between our own medical team and England’s, it was decided a week away with the international squad may have aggravated the problem.”

The club now hope a week of rest and treatment will mean Carson is available for Saturday’s trip to Old Trafford.