BBC Sport, 24 April 2009
Aston Villa manager Martin O'Neill has revealed Martin Laursen's chances of playing again are looking "gloomy".
The 31-year-old Laursen, who has been plagued by knee problems since joining Villa from AC Milan in 2004, has not played since January.
O'Neill told BBC WM: "Martin spoke to a specialist, he hasn't made a decision yet but it's looking gloomy.
"He is pretty despondent, as you would expect, but we should get a definitive answer by next week."
The Dane's latest injury, which is not thought to be linked to previous problems, has been a big blow to Villa and contributed to his side's dramatic dip in form over the closing stages of the season.
O'Neill added: "I don't think there's any question we've missed Martin. We've missed his defensive qualities, goals and especially his influence on the team."
Laursen cost Villa £3m but was restricted to only 28 appearances in his first three seasons at the club because of knee problems.
In 2007-08, his fitness improved and he played in every Premier League game, scoring six goals and winning the Villa fans' player-of-the-season award.
O'Neill, whose own career was cut short by a similar knee injury, said Laursen will be left to make the decision on his future.
He said: "I have much empathy for him, it's hard to come to terms with immediately. But Martin will make the decision on what he wants to do."
Aston Villa manager Martin O'Neill has revealed Martin Laursen's chances of playing again are looking "gloomy".
The 31-year-old Laursen, who has been plagued by knee problems since joining Villa from AC Milan in 2004, has not played since January.
O'Neill told BBC WM: "Martin spoke to a specialist, he hasn't made a decision yet but it's looking gloomy.
"He is pretty despondent, as you would expect, but we should get a definitive answer by next week."
The Dane's latest injury, which is not thought to be linked to previous problems, has been a big blow to Villa and contributed to his side's dramatic dip in form over the closing stages of the season.
O'Neill added: "I don't think there's any question we've missed Martin. We've missed his defensive qualities, goals and especially his influence on the team."
Laursen cost Villa £3m but was restricted to only 28 appearances in his first three seasons at the club because of knee problems.
In 2007-08, his fitness improved and he played in every Premier League game, scoring six goals and winning the Villa fans' player-of-the-season award.
O'Neill, whose own career was cut short by a similar knee injury, said Laursen will be left to make the decision on his future.
He said: "I have much empathy for him, it's hard to come to terms with immediately. But Martin will make the decision on what he wants to do."
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