Striker 'in club' before cup game

An inquiry is being launched over John Carew's whereabouts before the game

Aston Villa Football Club is launching an inquiry into claims a striker was in a lap-dancing club the night before a Uefa Cup game.

Norway international John Carew was reportedly in the Birmingham club during the early hours of Thursday, the day the team took on Dutch club Ajax.

Earlier in the week Carew, 28, had been rested due to fatigue.

A club spokesman said manager Martin O'Neill was "confused" upon hearing the reports and would be speaking to Carew.

The striker was named as a substitute for Sunday's match away at Wigan.

Aston Villa won the game against Ajax 2-1.