Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill hailed goal scorer Martin Laursen after last night's 2-2 draw with Intertoto Cup opponents Odense.

O'Neill said: "Martin's nearly 31 years of age and he tries to improve every day. That's great in itself. The injury he had to his knee would have floored lesser men. He's in the John Terry mould, isn't he?

"He's become a talismanic figure. I must admit when I saw him two years ago I never believed for one minute that he would play the number of games that he has. It has been quite extraordinary.'

Laursen said: "I would be proud to be the captain of Aston Villa. it's not going to be something that will ruin my season if it doesn't happen but I would be privileged to do it."