Aston Villa Boss Gerard Houllier Hopeful Stilian Petrov Will Not Require Surgery
Posted Friday, October 29, 2010 by YAHOO Sport
Aston Villa manager Gerard Houllier is hopeful Stilian Petrov will not need surgery to overcome his knee problem.
The Frenchman is hopeful his captain will be back within two months from the lateral knee ligament injury suffered against Sunderland on Saturday.
But Houllier knows it may be two months before the central midfielder is back in action if he has to have an operation.
Houllier said: "The worse case is that Stilian will be out for a minimum of two months.
"I think we should know by the end of the week whether he needs an operation or not.
"Let's keep our fingers crossed he doesn't require one as it could then be treated conservatively which will be the best scenario.
"The worst scenario, of course, is needing the operation.
"But Stilian is a strong lad who has had to go through injuries before and he has always come back."
Houllier’s squad has been struck by injuries since he was appointed but is optimistic the troubles are easing as full-back Luke Young will be able to resume training next week after being sidelined with a hamstring injury.
But England striker Gabriel Agbonlahor is not yet ready to start his comeback after undergoing groin surgery three weeks ago.
Houllier added: "Luke Young is slowly gradually coming back to normal.
"Next week he should be able to train with the others.
"Regarding Gabby, it will be one or two weeks before he joins the group [for training]."
Photos
More»Meet Jude Bellingham's stunning girlfriend Laura
Thursday April 25 2024[PICTURE SPECIAL] Man Utd 4 - 2 Sheffield United
Thursday April 25 2024[PICTURE SPECIAL] Arsenal 5-0 Chelsea
Wednesday April 24 2024
Your Say