Former Aston Villa captain Martin Laursen has called on fans to fill Villa Park for the second-leg of their Carling Cup semi against Blackburn Rovers.

Villa go into the game defending a 1-0 lead.

Laursen told Villa's website: "You say it so many times and I know it's mentioned a lot but it is so, so true. I can't stress it enough - especially as someone who experienced Villa Park on those amazing nights to remember.

"It's so, so important. If you play in a stadium where you can hear nothing you don't give as much as when the fans are really up for it - happy and cheering. Then you give more - much more.

"It's vital to have the fans behind you because I am sure - 100 per cent certain - that you give more. You use more energy than if the fans are saying nothing and being quiet.

"That Ajax game was amazing - the noise was incredible. The great thing is I scored early. It was such a good feeling. It was so, so special.

"It had been so many years since Villa had had a proper European night and to be captain too and score was great for me and the team and a great feeling."