They say a week is a long time football.

So imagine Luke Young’s frustration at being sat on the sidelines for the last two months – while feeling fit.

You’d be hard pushed to find a professional footballer who’s had a tougher season than the 30-year-old.

After recovering from the toe injury which brought a premature end to last season, Young suffered a thigh injury which kept him sidelined for the entire pre-season. But far worse was to follow.

On the eve of the new campaign arrived news of the death of his half-brother, Andre.

After being given time off to mourn, Young worked his way back to fitness only to find Carlos Cuellar blocking his path to the right-back berth he was so impressive in last term.

That, combined with a softly, softly approach from boss Martin O’Neill meant Young had to wait patiently for his opportunity.

But, believing himself to have been ready since the derby win over Birmingham, that has not been easy.

Another blow came when Habib Beye was selected ahead of him at West Ham a week ago.

However, with Beye suspended after his red against the Hammers and Cuellar needed in the centre, his chance came in Saturday’s game with Bolton. Typically, he grabbed it with both hands, slotting straight back in to help Villa to a 5-1 win.

“I’m glad I got a chance on Saturday otherwise I could have been heading into January without playing a minute of football,” said Young.

“I thought Habib was a bit unlucky with his suspension.

“He got the ball for the penalty but it has given me a chance and hopefully with the win it will have given me a better chance of staying in the side.