I am not irreplaceable - Laursen

Laursen is set to work on Danish television as a football pundit

Former Aston Villa captain Martin Laursen believes manager Martin O'Neill will be able to find a suitable replacement following his retirement.

The ex-Denmark international ended his career last month because of a series of serious knee injuries, but he insists he is not irreplaceable.

"I hope that Aston Villa can find someone to play my position and really do well," he told BBC WM.

"The club moving forward - that would be the best scenario for me."

Laursen's farewell to Villa Park was an emotional experience for the defender, as he was given a standing ovation during the final home game of the season against Newcastle.

And the 31-year-old has sympathy for another Villa Park departure after former skipper Gareth Barry chose a move to Manchester City.

"He's an England international and a very, very good player who has given a lot to the club," he said.

"Perhaps he thought that he couldn't really bring anything more out of himself, he needed something to stimulate him as a player."

Laursen is set to have further surgery on his knee, in order to make his future life more comfortable, and will work as a pundit for Danish TV on international games and the Champions League.