Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill admits Martin Laursen's return to full fitness was a huge boost last season.

He told Villa's website: "At the start of the season I don't think many people would have put money on Martin starting every single League game - least of all Martin!

"It's been a great effort and I'm delighted for Martin. Well done to him. For him to have played the number of games he has this season has been terrific but it would have been nice to have had the option to rest him.