DUNNE CONCERN FOR VILLA

Richard Dunne is a source for great concern for Aston Villa as they prepare to face Blackburn Rovers in the Carling Cup. The third-round encounter at Villa Park on Wednesday will be Gerard Houllier's first game in charge after he officially took over the reins on Monday.

However, the former Liverpool boss could be without influential defender Richard Dunne, who is struggling with a leg injury. Dunne was replaced by Carlos Cuellar at half-time of Saturday's 1-1 draw with Bolton Wanderers and may miss out against Blackburn.

Kevin MacDonald, who has been caretaker boss for the opening seven games of the season, said: "Richard got a bang on the knee last Monday and did well to actually play against Bolton. It's too early to say whether he'll be fit for Wednesday."

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