Laursen Wants To Earn Villa Future

Martin Laursen says he has had ‘bad luck’ since moving from AC Milan but hopes to be able to put the injury problems to bed and get on with his Villa career.

The Danish international, who when fit appears to be an automatic choice under Martin O’Neill, says he hasn’t been able to play enough for Villa but hopes to earn a new contract to show us what he can do.

‘My Villa career has been frustrating because for these three years I haven’t played enough. This season I have been pleased with the way I have played – but it’s not been enough. I think I’ve played only 23 games in nearly three years. It irritates me that I haven’t been able to give more back definitely in terms of value for money but there’s been nothing I’ve been able to do about that. It’s been bad luck. I don’t feel I can blame myself. I’ve done everything I can to get back as soon as possible.’

Adding on the official site: ‘I’ve one season left of my contract. Next season is a big one for me. I would love to have a new contract but I would need to play regularly to earn one. They would need to see I am fit and that they can trust I am back. I’ve got to play really.’

And on his major knee injury he admits it nearly spelt the end of his career: ‘I wondered if I might have to retire because I couldn’t be given a 100% guarantee I would be back. It was a cartilage problem in my left knee. There were two holes in it. Then I went to see Dr Steadman, who had also operated on Michael Owen, and things have got better. If anyone can save a career, it is him.’

Fingers crossed he can now return to full fitness, when he is in the team, he is our best natural defender in my ever so humble opinion!