In what was a highly impressive season under Martin O’Neill, Aston Villa surprised many with their brand of fast-paced, counter-attacking football. And even though they eventually missed out on Champions League football, the fans can look back on what was a highly successful season.
Things might not go so well this season though. The sale of Gareth Barry to Manchester City not only weakens Villa’s side but strengthens one of their serious rivals in the race to the Champions League. It could have a destabilising effect on the team, of which Barry has been a major part for many years. It is now essential that Ashley Young is kept. Losing the winger as well would be a disaster. Barry’s departure, coupled with Martin Laursen’s retirement due to injury, threatens to undo the good work Martin O’Neill has done over the past few years but there is still cause for optimism.
Stewart Downing is now on the books and the England winger, despite being out injured until at least December, not only provides competition for Young but offers Villa another dimension with his left-footed crossing. The likes of John Carew and Gabriel Agbonlahor should thrive on that service.
The somewhat over-priced, but nonetheless talented, Fabian Delph has also joined the ranks and whilst the youngster may not feature too heavily in the first-team this season, Villa fans can expect to see more of him in the coming years, and it is then that we will see his true value.
The lack of a direct replacement for Barry is a concern for Villa and if O’Neill can’t get somebody in before the window closes Villa will certainly be substantially weaker for it.
Prediction: 7th – If Villa can repeat the kind of football that saw them comfortably in fourth mid-way through last season then they may yet be capable of challenging the top four. But it is looking increasingly unlikely. Barry has to be replaced and Young must be kept. A new centre-back should also be a priority after Zat Knight was sold to Bolton. Habib Beye, whilst being a useful squad player, should not be in Villa’s starting line-up each week.
Key Man: Ashley Young. The England winger may have to occupy both wings at various times this season but you can guarantee he’ll be equally as effective on either flank. He is lightning quick and has scored his fair share of goals. Without him, Villa start to look like a very average side. Keeping him, despite the attentions of other clubs, is absolutely essential.
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