If you’re in the camp that firmly ties Laursen’s absence with Villa’s poor run of form then it’s very bad news I’m afraid. From MON:-

Martin is struggling. There’s not much more to say. He’ll be struggling to play again before the end of the season.

If you’re in the camp that ties the poor run of form with the acquisition of Emile Heskey then it’s equally bad news. Again, from MON:-

Emile has trained for the last couple of days and that is encouraging for us. It would be good if he could make it for the weekend.

And if you’re in both camps then this is clearly devastating news… I probably shouldn’t mention Freddie’s set back or Gabby’s thigh scan!!