Villa defender backed to step up for Hatters

Griffiths will miss the clash against the league leaders due to his hernia operation, but on Kinsella, who went off with cramp in the 3-2 defeat to Exeter City on Good Friday, he said: “I watched him play a couple of times the last couple of games.

“He’s young and a bit, I don’t want to say inexperienced, but he’s still got a bit of young head on his shoulders.

“It’s good in a way as he’s got great enthusiasm. He’s a good player, sharp and it’s just getting used to this league for him, getting into it, learning the physical side of it.

“Because coming out of the Prem (Premier League) into a league like this, it’s going to be quicker at the back. You don’t get pressed as much as the back I’d imagine, but he should fit in quite well.”

Boss John Still will have to make the choice between Kinsella and fit-again Jake Howells as he added: “Scott needs an operation, but Lewis is a young lad whose come in and done really well.

“He cramped up at the end of the game and we had to make a change. This (Tranmere) was a bit too quick for him, but we might need him Saturday.”