The agent of John Carew admits the Aston Villa striker faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

The Norway international has not played since November 22 due to a back injury and was initially expected to spend around five weeks on the sidelines.

"It is hard to say when John will be back. Maybe in February, maybe in March or later," Per Flod told NRK.

"This is an injury that will take time. It is important that John is completely healed."