GEORGE Rooney is facing up to the loss of Ian Stevenson who broke his ankle in Saturday's draw with Stockport County.

Bromsgrove Rovers' manager described it as a 'massive blow' after the player impressed during the early part of pre-season.

Rooney's side take on an Aston Villa XI at the Victoria Ground tonight with kick-off brought forward to 7.30pm at Villa's request.

Steve Frost and Grant Beckett will be given the chance to assume Stevenson's holding role in midfield but have a lot to live up to, according to Rooney who first came across him as a promising youngster.

"I was delighted when he asked to join us for pre-season and I just hoped he'd retained some of the potential he showed in his early days before he concentrated on his education," said Rooney.

Stevenson will be in plaster for six weeks before beginning rehabilitation.

"I'm more down about it than him but he's staying positive and said 'at least I'm not going to miss the whole of the season'," said Rooney.

Villa, led by reserve team coach Kevin MacDonald, are expected to field a young side but they will still be a good standard, believes Rooney.