On january 2012 · Last Man Standing
Aston Villa defender Carlos Cuellar has been ruled out of Saturday’s away FA Cup third-round clash with Bristol Rovers with the thigh injury suffered during the home defeat by Swansea.
Alan Hutton is poised to replace the Spaniard at right-back. He failed to regain his place following his return from suspension after his red card against Arsenal last month.
Midfielder Chris Herd is still sidelined with an ankle problem. Villa boss Alex McLeish is weighing up whether to include new signing, left-back Enda Stevens, in his plans against Rovers, who begin life after former manager Paul Buckle.
Buckle, who was relieved of his duties following the 2-0 defeat at Barnet on Monday, will be succeeded by his assistant Shaun North for the fixture as the npower League Two outfit search for a new boss.
And North is sweating over the fitness of Matt Harrold and Byron Anthony.
Top-scorer Harrold and centre-back Anthony both featured in the Pirates’ matchday squad for the loss at Barnet, but the pair are struggling with minor knocks and remain doubtful for the televised tie.
Defender Adam Virgo (knee ligament damage) and midfielder Wayne Brown (ankle) remain long-term absentees.
Carlos Cuéllar Official website © 2026