Last Updated: Wed, 30 Apr 2008 15:03
Martin O'Neill admits to be cautious over the return of Curtis Davies and expects him to be out until at least October.
The 23-year-old ruptured his Achilles tendon in Villa's game at Arsenal back in March and it appears the former West Brom man could miss the first two months of the new campaign.
Davies has indicated that he is looking to be back by the end of August, but O'Neill admits the club's medical team have urged caution and Villa have no plans to rush the central defender back to action.
Speaking to the Birmingham Mail, the Villa boss said: "Curtis is doing really well - he's always bright and chirpy around the training ground and he's genuinely great.
"If anyone can come back quicker than planned, it will be Curtis. But I don't expect to see him back until October or November.
"Curtis could be a month ahead in his rehabilitation but our club doctor Roddy McDonald said we have to be very careful."
Meanwhile, Shaun Maloney has given Villa a fitness scare after picking up an ankle injury in training, but O'Neill is expecting him back with the rest of the squad this week.
The manager revealed: "Shaun was not feeling well last Sunday. He had picked up a bit of an ankle problem. Roddy McDonald thinks that he should be alright to start training again on Wednesday."