Martin O'Neill hasn't ruled Martin Laursen and Carlos Cuellar out of a shock return on Saturday - although the Villa boss admitted the Baggies clash might come too soon for the defensive pair.

The Villa boss is far more confident of Gareth Barry taking his place in the starting XI, after scans of the influential midfielder's groin showed no serious damage.

MON told AVTV: "Martin and Carlos have done a bit of training and they are feeling optimistic now.

"I don't know if Saturday will come too quickly but they will certainly be available in the not too distant future."

On the subject of Barry, O'Neill added: "Gareth irritated a groin strain, which he has been carrying for a few weeks.

"He irritated it against Hull and was feeling the worse for wear after that game.

"We have had some tests done and it hasn't come out as really bad but if it continues to be a problem, it might be something we will look at.

"But he will still be putting himself forward for the game on Saturday, which is good news. We will just keep monitoring it."