Cuellar has been trying desperately to secure a first-team place

Aston Villa defender Carlos Cuellar has been ruled out for up to four weeks after tearing a hamstring.

The 29-year-old Spaniard, who can play at right-back or centre-half, suffered the setback during the 1-1 draw at Blackpool on 12 February.

Better news for Villa is the imminent return of right-back Luke Young, who has had a knee injury since December.

"Young has trained fully this week and we have a practice game lined up for him," said boss Gerard Houllier.

"The game with Blackburn [on 26 February] could be too soon for him, but it could be very soon after that."

Villa, currently 15th in the Premier League table with 11 games remaining, have been at least fortunate with the timing of their injuries having had a fortnight's break in their fixtures.

With James Collins being rested in last Saturday's draw at Bloomfield Road, it was a chance for Cuellar to impress, but the former Rangers defender limped off after 27 minutes following a challenge.

Cuellar will miss the home game against Blackburn and will target a comeback at Bolton on 5 March.

Meanwhile, the 31-year-old Young looks set to return to action having seen a specialist in London to try to solve his ongoing knee problem.

Young, who has not played since 6 December, has been dogged by injury setbacks this season, with the knee issue following hip and ankle troubles, and has been restricted to 14 appearances.

Last month, Villa signed Tottenham defender Kyle Walker on loan until the end of the season as cover for the England international.

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version