Aston Villa begin to reap rewards with Stiliyan Petrov

Nov 21 2008 By Mat Kendrick

between the forwards and the defence.

Winger Ashley Young, for one, believes it is no coincidence that Villas defeats against Newcastle and Middlesbrough came during Petrovs injury-enforced absence, while the glorious win at the Emirates marked his first game back.

"It was a massive team performance and I thought everyone dug deep, but the midfield three was key for us, said Young. "We won the game there. They were brilliant.

"Stan (Stiliyan) coming back into the team was vital. Hes been brilliant all season.

"In my opinion, he has been our best player.

"It was great to have him back and I thought we looked good with him in there. He was immense."

Meanwhile, Villa defender Nick Shorey could be given an instant recall for the United game with Carlos Cuellar nursing a thigh strain.

Shorey missed out at the Emirates following a poor performance against Middlesbrough and Luke Young deputised at left-back.

Cuellars injury, however, could see a quick return for former Reading full-back Shorey with Young reverting to the right side of defence.

"Carlos is extremely doubtful for the game with a thigh problem," said ONeill.

He continued to play on at Arsenal and he will be struggling for fitness.

will be a blow, and we will wait and see if there are other set-backs now with those away on international duty.