Defender Jores Okore has claimed that he is "like a fan" when he watches Aston Villa from the sidelines.

Okore has not played for Villa since September due to a serious knee problem, but the Danish international has refused to let the injury dampen his team spirit.

He told the club's official website: "I watch all the games. I enjoy seeing the boys play in the matches. I see every game.

"I must admit I'd rather play. But I don't hate it on the sidelines because I can't do anything about my injury now other than to work hard - and I know my chance will come. I know why I'm not playing so it's not a problem.

"I love watching the lads every week though, supporting them and willing them to do their best. I am like a fan when I watch the boys in action. I am not crazy - but I am excited certainly. I am not jumping around too much. But I scream when we score and I get mad when we concede a goal."

Okore hopes to return to first-team action before the end of the season, but he will not feature in this afternoon's Premier League clash with Manchester United.