As expected Mark Venus will miss tomorrow's friendly with Alania Vladikavkaz in Dhekelia's Garrison Ground on Saturday (KO 3pm local time, 1pm GMT). The central defender has been told to rest in order to get over his problem with a muscle behind the knee.

George Burley said of Venus: "Mark will not be involved in the match with the Russian side. His knee has not settled down yet. All the other players in the squad are fit."

It is likely that Town will line-up with Titus Bramble alongside Thomas Gaardsøe at the centre of defence. If Venus fails to recover these two are almost certain to start against Southampton next week. John McGreal will miss out against the Saints as he is suspended.

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