Carlos Cuellar is hoping to take advantage of fellow Aston Villa defender Richard Dunne's two-month absence with a shoulder problem.

The former Rangers player admits Dunne's absence will be a big loss to Villa but would like the chance to play in his preferred centre-back role.

Cuellar has also been employed in both full-back roles by Villa boss Alex McLeish.

He told the club's official website: "The gaffer has got options to change the team around but the worst thing is we will miss Dunney because he was playing so well and he was very important for us.

"It is the gaffer's choice but I'll be happy even if I play on the left or the right - I just love to play for the club.

"My natural position is centre-back so it will be good if I could play some games there but I was feeling good playing right or left too."