Shay Given gives Villa an injury scare

Villa were today assessing the fitness of Shay Given after the goalkeeper picked up a groin injury in the goalless draw at Fulham.

Given kept a clean sheet on his competitive debut for the club at Craven Cottage and caught the eye with a couple of superb saves, in what was his first Premier League game for over 16 months.

But the 35-year-old was struggling towards the end of the match and defender James Collins took the goal-kicks instead of his Villa team-mate.

While the Republic of Ireland international's injury is not thought to be serious, manager Alex McLeish will get a clearer picture when Given is examined by club medical staff a Bodymoor Heath.

McLeish said: "Shay had a bit of a tight groin, that's why James took the goal-kicks. But we're hoping he's OK.

"I need to wait and speak to the doctor but within 24 hours is normally the time to tell."

The Villa boss also admitted that he is personally starting to feel a little bit more settled at the club, which was helped by the largely positive reaction from the travelling supporters on Saturday.

He said: "I know there was a lot of controversy with me moving across to Villa. I also knew that there were going to be some moments when I was going to be tested.

"With each week that has passed, I have felt more and more at home."