ASTON Villa manager Brian Little will issue a stern warning to his players not to become involved in any confrontation with the match officials in tonight's UEFA Cup first round meeting with Helsingborgs at Villa Park.

Little was annoyed that two of his players received yellow cards from Leeds referee Mike Riley after the final whistle of Saturday's premiership draw against Arsenal.

Sasa Curcic, the club's record £4 million signing, and substitute Ian Taylor were both cautioned for protesting that the referee had added on too much time at the end of the second half, a period in which Arsenal scored their equaliser.

Now both players are under, threat of an FA misconduct charge which could lead to a hefty fine and a suspension.

Little is aware that the consequences could be even more severe if his players begin to question the decisions of Cypriot official Louizos Loizou in this evening's game against a team currently lying second in the Swedish first division.

Little confirmed "I will not stand up for any of my players who argue with referees. They should know that once an official has made a decision he will not change his mind. I was disappointed that two players were cautioned as a result of confronting the referee. Both should have known better.

"I shall be talking to everyone before this match to ensure there is no repeat of what happened."

Helsingborgs, who have former Sheffield Wednesday defender Roland Nilsson as one of only two full time professionals, will provide a stern test, according to the Villa manager.

Little said "It is important we play to the tempo that we normally do, and hopefully if we can keep the pressure on, that will provide a test for them, particularly in the final 15 minutes when they may begin to tire."

Villa will be without injured goalkeeper Mark Bosnich, and midfielder Curcic, who was signed after the UEFA deadline for the opening three rounds.