Football: Sven's on mission

SWEDISH defender Michael Svensson is aiming to inflict defeat on the team he supported as a kid when Southampton take on Aston Villa at Villa Park tomorrow night.

Svensson, who joined Saints from French outfit Troyes for pounds 2million last summer, admits he was an avid Villa follower - because he liked their claret and blue colours.

He said: "It was watching Villa that made me decide that I wanted to play in English football one day. One of my favourite players was Gary Shaw, I remember his blond hair, and the fact he scored some fine goals for Villa.

"Although I always followed Villa, I have never been to Villa Park before, so I am really looking forward to the match.

"It's important we beat Villa and maintain the good form we have shown in most of our away games this season."

Svensson, 27, admits the Premiership has presented him with the biggest test of his career.

He said: "I think it is the best league in the world. It is very hard and fast, and you cannot afford to relax for one minute or you will be punished."

The central defender added: "It took a little time to settle in, but I feel I am now progressing. My defensive partner Claus Lundekvam has helped a lot, because he has had a lot of experience and is a very calm and skilful player."

Saints will be without Marian Pahars who is suspended, so James Beattie will partner in-form striker Brett Ormerod, who has scored five goals in his last two matches.

Likely line-ups - Villa: Enckelman; Mellberg, Johnsen (Alpay), Staunton; De la Cruz, Hendrie, Kinsella, Barry, Samuel; Vassell, Dublin.

Southampton: Niemi; Dodd, Lundekvam, M Svensson, Bridge; Fernandes, Delap, A Svensson, Marsden; Beattie, Ormerod.

Copyright 2002 MGN LTD
Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning Company. All rights Reserved.