DELANEY ON THE ROAD TO RECOVERY

By Ryan Ghee
September 21 2005

Aston Villa defender Mark Delaney continued his comeback from injury as he played 65 minutes for Aston Villa reserves in last nights 1-1 draw against Blackburn.

The Welshman hasn't featured for Aston Villa's first team so far this season due to a knee injury which he sustained in pre-season. Delaney underwent surgery on the injury only a few weeks ago but he is now edging closer to a first team return.

Speaking on the matter, O'Leary said, "It is good he is back in contention and when he is fit he is Villa's Mr Dependable."

However, Aston Villa will be without striker Kevin Phillips for up to two weeks. The player withdrew from the bench for Villa's match against Tottenham on Saturday after straining his calf muscle in the warm-up.

Speaking to Aston Villa's official website, O'Leary confirmed that Phillips is "a doubt for the Chelsea game." He also added, "Maybe the Middlesbrough game (October 2) is the earliest we are looking at for a return."