THE ESSENTIAL

Habib Beye admits he may have to leave Aston Villa at the end of the season if he is unable to force his way back into Martin O'Neill's team.

Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill has been boosted by the news that Emile Heskey should be fit for at least part of the festive programme.

Martin O'Neill insists Aston Villa's decline during the final third of last season will ensure they do not get carried away this term.

Aston Villa manager Martin O'Neill has confirmed he will not rush central defender James Collins back from a groin injury.

Aston Villa manager Martin O'Neill has assured the club's supporters that owner Randy Lerner has lost none of his passion for the club.

Martin O'Neill is hopeful Aston Villa striker Emile Heskey will be fit sooner rather than later after suffering a recurrence of a back problem.

England winger Stewart Downing, recovering from a broken foot, has set his sights on finally making his Aston Villa debut before Christmas.

Martin O'Neill will "sit down and have a think" about Emile Heskey's claims he may have to quit Aston Villa to keep his World Cup hopes alive.

Emile Heskey may look for a move away from Aston Villa in January to secure his place in the England squad for next summer's World Cup.

Stiliyan Petrov believes Aston Villa proved against Manchester City that they too can challenge for a place in the Premier League top four.

TRANSFERS

Who? - Tomasz Kuszczak
Where is he? - Manchester United
Who is he linked with? - Aston Villa
More...

Who? - Adam Matthews
Where is he? - Cardiff City
Who is he linked with? - Aston Villa
More...