Alex McLeish hopes for a change of luck

Alex McLeish bemoaned Villa's luck as he crosses his fingers some of his crocked stars will return for Saturday's trip to Liverpool.

Alex McLeish bemoaned Villa's luck as he crosses his fingers some of his crocked stars will return for Saturday's trip to Liverpool.

Villa have suffered more than their fair share of injury problems this season with the Scot forced to fill the bench with unproven youngsters against Chelsea last weekend.

And McLeish will check on the fitness of Charles N'Zogbia, Carlos Cuellar and Ciaran Clark in the hope that his squad will get a boost from the return of an established player.

"The gods are conspiring against us a bit and I think I've shot an albatross or something," said McLeish.

"It's a tough season and a tough challenge, but the season is not over yet.

"We have to look to get to at least 40 points. That is the target I'd be giving to the players and to get there as quickly as possible."

McLeish admitted he is concerned about the prospect of a dogfight in the final eight games having endured a nightmare end to last season with former club Birmingham who were relegated to the Championship.

"We have been weakened by injuries. That does make your job much harder without doubt.

"But I care, I am conscientious and try and leave no stone unturned. I am concentrating on winning enough games to make sure Villa is OK."