Bouma boost for O'Neill

My Account
Logout

Create an Evening Standard Account

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Welcome! Sign in here

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Forgot your password ?

Registration

* indicates fields that are mandatory

Email *

Password *

Confirm Password *

First name *

Surname *

Postcode *

Country *

Mobile phone number

Username *

Gender *

Year of birth *

When you sign up...

You will have access to all our online competitions, discounted offers and can post comments on our site.

You will also receive The Weekender newsletter sent every Thursday - it’s full of fantastic offers and ideas for the weekend. You can update your email preferences in your account page when you log in.

Other newsletters and emails

Homes & Property Newsletter - Yes I want to receive the weekly email with all the latest news on property in the capital

Occasionally we would also like to send you relevant emails detailing specific offers either from ourselves or carefully selected partners. If you would prefer not to receive these then please tick the appropriate boxes below. We will never pass on your details.

I do not want to receive additional offers and information from the Evening Standard

I do not want to receive additional offers and information sent by Evening Standard on behalf of carefully selected partners

Terms and Conditions

* I have read, understood and agree to be bound by the terms and conditions of Evening Standard

Registration

Mail Sent for Registration Confirmation.

A confirmation email has been sent. Please activate your account by clicking on the activation link sent in your mail box.

The Dutch international has been sidelined since dislocating an ankle during the Intertoto Cup clash with Odense BK in late July, but came through the entire recent second team game against Chelsea and set up the only goal against Stoke.

Now Bouma could come into the equation for faltering Villa's next Barclays Premier League clash with Manchester United at Old Trafford on April 5.

It would give a welcome boost for O'Neill in being able to get the balance of his defence right after the 5-0 mauling at Liverpool.

He has opted to play right-back Luke Young on the other flank during most of Bouma's absence - despite having England international Nicky Shorey available as a straight replacement.

And central midfielder Nigel Reo-Coker, who had a nightmare time at Anfield, and central defender Carlos Cuellar have filled in at right-back for the majority of the campaign.

Bouma is also set to play another reserve game away to Tottenham next Monday ahead of the trip to face the Red Devils on April 5.

Villa have gone eight games without a win in all competitions and during that period have conceded 18 goals and failed to keep a clean sheet.