Gavin McCann is primed for a recall to Villa’s starting line-up on Sunday – but his eagerly-awaited collision with Robbie Savage won’t happen.

McCann came through a competitive small-sided game at Bodymoor yesterday and will declare himself ready to play.

The combative midfielder has been much-missed in the three games he’s been out with a calf injury.

But the chances of him clashing with Savage have disappeared after the former Birmingham midfielder picked up a thigh injury in Blackburn’s 3-0 UEFA Cup win over FC Basle last night.

Read the full story in the Express & StarGavin McCann is primed for a recall to Villa’s starting line-up on Sunday – but his eagerly-awaited collision with Robbie Savage won’t happen.

Gavin McCann is primed for a recall to Villa’s starting line-up on Sunday – but his eagerly-awaited collision with Robbie Savage won’t happen.McCann came through a competitive small-sided game at Bodymoor yesterday and will declare himself ready to play.

The combative midfielder has been much-missed in the three games he’s been out with a calf injury.

But the chances of him clashing with Savage have disappeared after the former Birmingham midfielder picked up a thigh injury in Blackburn’s 3-0 UEFA Cup win over FC Basle last night.

A similar injury saw the Rovers midfielder miss two games before, and the Welshman – now set to be replaced by Aaron Mokoena – expects to be out longer.

“When I planted my foot I felt it go again and I think it’s going to be longer,” said Savage.

“I felt a sharp pain, like a knife going in my thigh. It’ll certainly be longer than 10 days, maybe three to four weeks.”

As Villa prepare to welcome back McCann, manager Martin O’Neill is giving his players two months to prove themselves.

“I want another two months of football before I make a genuine and concerted judgement on my players – those who have played often,” said the boss. “You can imagine how less informed I’d be on those who have played less. At the moment, I’m deliberating.”

And the Villa chief is also ready to continue resting Steven Davis, who has struggled to emulate last season’s form.

“Steven has played every game so far and by his own admission he hasn’t reached the heights of last season,” said O’Neill.

“But there are opportunities for all and I don’t think sitting out a game or two does anyone any harm.

“He was left out or substitute in games last season. I’m not sure Steven or anyone would take it as any great sleight these days.

“I’m sure Steven wants to get back to last season’s form as quickly as possible.

“Liam Ridgewell said to he felt last season’s squad was so wafer-thin, some younger players including himself could have done with missing a week or so.”

By Tim Nash