Nigel Reo-Coker was back in Villa’s first-team plans this weekend – but with his long-term future still a subject of doubt.

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The 25-year-old midfielder has missed the last two matches after he squared up with manager Martin O’Neill in training.

He was back in the squad for today’s clash at Blackburn but without the ringing endorsement from his manager that would suggest the pair have a long-term future together.

O’Neill said: “Nigel is in the squad. There is nothing else to say.”

And when asked if Reo-Coker had apologised over the clash, in which the two grappled with each other in front of the first-team squad, or had a long-term future under his regime O’Neill curtly answered: “The issue is closed.”

Reo-Coker’s return is most likely to be a meeting of convenience for both with Villa in need of his services because of injuries and Reo-Coker anxious to put himself in the shop window.