Gavin McCann is Aston Villa's big worry ahead of the visit of
Premiership leaders Manchester United.
Villa are aiming to snap a run of six games without a win and are
looking to start the holiday period by inflicting a second
successive defeat on the table-toppers. But Villa could be without
the midfield influence of McCann, who is struggling to shake off a
hamstring complaint.
McCann failed to reappear for the second half of last week's home
defeat to Bolton Wanderers, although Martin O'Neill is giving the
player as much time as possible. If McCann is not passed fit, then
either Craig Gardner will come in for his first start of the
season, or Isaiah Osbourne will be recalled after being left out
against Bolton.
Emergency loan signing Gabor Kiraly will make his second appearance
in goal in the continued absence of Thomas Sorensen and Stuart
Taylor. Olof Mellberg is likely to continue to fill in at
right-back, with Mark Delaney still out, although Aaron Hughes has
been on the bench of late.
If Hughes is deemed fit to start, O'Neill could opt for experience
at the back by shifting Mellberg into the centre in place of
youngster Gary Cahill. Martin Laursen remains absent, as does Luke
Moore, so O'Neill is likely to perm two from three up front, with
Chris Sutton, Juan Pablo Angel and Milan Baros his options.
United travel to the Midlands after suffering a first Premiership
away defeat of the season last week at West Ham United. The setback
ensured United's lead over Chelsea was cut to two points and Sir
Alex Ferguson will be anxious to avoid back-to-back losses.
Ferguson seems certain to rotate his squad over the Christmas
period, but may opt to start the festive season with his strongest
side. He could, therefore, stick with the same XI which started at
Upton Park, as Patrice Evra continues to struggle with a calf
injury.
Park Ji-sung made his first appearance in three months as a late
substitute, but is likely to remain on the bench as he continues to
build his match fitness. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is an attacking
option for United, while John O'Shea and Darren Fletcher are also
pushing for starting roles.
Henrik Larsson has been training with The Red Devils this week, but
is not eligible to play for United until the FA Cup third round tie
against Villa on 7th January.
Player to watch: Cristiano Ronaldo
