It’s not just the John Terrys and Frank Lampards of this world that have been on international duty this week – as Kidderminster Harriers boss Steve Burr can testify.

Villa trio James Milner, Emile Heskey and Stephen Warnock have been included in Fabio Capello’s provisional 30-man squad.

No player around these parts quite understands just what the outcome of these next two games could mean for Villa quite like John Carew.

Villa striker John Carew has blasted Chelsea captain John Terry’s X-rated challenge on England team-mate James Milner by insisting it could have broken his leg.

Villa’s trophy drought will go on after three second-half Chelsea goals led to a cruel FA Cup semi-final defeat.

This was no freakish blip on the chart of an otherwise impressive season for Villa.

Villa slumped to their heaviest ever Premier League defeat after a real drubbing at Chelsea.

Villa are poised to reward midfield star James Milner with a money-spinning new contract worth an estimated £12m.

Villa defender Luke Young has broken his silence on his decision to quit England after insisting he was never taken seriously enough.

Villa favourite Ian Taylor is urging the team to be ruthless without remorse when the claret and blues square up to Manchester United in the Carling Cup final on Sunday.