Heskey injury deepens Villa's striker problem

Aston Villa striker Emile Heskey has been ruled out for up to a month with a medial knee ligament injury, the club confirmed yesterday. Heskey suffered the setback in training on Wednesday and will require surgery.

The former England player has been in good form and is Villa's joint leading scorer with four goals It is another attacking setback for manager Gérard Houllier, as Gabriel Agbonlahor is still recovering from groin surgery.

John Carew, who has struggled to make an impact this season, is the club's only fit senior striker ahead of tomorrow's Premier League game at Fulham. The England Under-19 player Nathan Delfouneso will also be in contention to feature at Craven Cottage.