The weather forecast seems to indicate a raising of the temperature fairly soon, and with that news comes the information from Villa Park that “Ian Taylor and Brian Little have held a meeting with chief executive Keith Wyness to discuss how to bring the good times back to the club”.

Now, tell me if I’m wrong, but isn’t this what the fans were asking the previous regime to do for so long? But no, the old guard knew better, exemplified by an occasion when, following my suggestion to the club to take up Charlie Aitken’s offer of valuable memorabilia to utilise in the supposed museum, General Krulak replied with the words “what would players know about what goes into a museum?” (or words to that effect). But I knew that after talking to Charlie for just 30 minutes he knew exactly what he was talking about. Well, what would an American general know about footballers – especially those that have played for the Villa, and one that holds a club record after 17 years of fine service.

But the old guard is well gone, the club has already got the air of a spring-clean about it, and a lot of right noises have been made. And we even have a new player who has said that signing for Villa is a “no brainer”.

Wow, it’s possible the real Aston Villa still exists after all!

There is clearly still much to be done: another couple of players are needed, and some dead wood needs to be cleared. But at least there is a sense of renewed optimism. And with the stalwart Stan Petrov around to give a particular kind of inspiration after his personal battles, the players should have a better feeling generated by him about reality rather than the uninspirational situation that previously existed for 4 years or more. Even ‘our Jack’ seems to have gained a re-newed sense of urgency, and at least he’s not refusing to play in the Championship. Well done Jack.

In May I very much had my doubts that Villa could get back to the top tier within a couple of years, but the change of ownership and the pleasant buzz that has been generated this last month or two has automatically raised my own level of optimism.

Let’s go, Villa! Back to the top!

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John Lerwill
I'm a Villan of more than 60 years standing and an occasional writer on Villa history. For me there is only one football club worth supporting, but I am now wondering whether I will again see anything like the pageant that was paraded under Ron Saunders or even that by Big Ron and Brian Little. My glass, however, is always half-full! Click here for my Villa website.

Comments 183

  1. Trinity

    Commiserations to the families and friends of those who lost their lives in Nice. Also to the families and friends of those who have been injured. May the injured have a speedy and complete recovery.

    John
    Thanks for writing another leader for us. Things do look a bit brighter at VP. As you say, there is still clearing out that needs doing and there is still some to come in to improve the team. Time is ticking away.
    I think the former regime looked upon Villa’s fanbase as a kind of uneducated mob that needed to be shown the way.

  2. steamer

    Good moaning,
    Agree with John that their seems to be a new sense of professionalism around the club and even thoughts that last seasons unflushables may even contribute, however, the fact remains that the likes of Saggy & Bacuna took the P big time, they humiliated the club and the customers in a way that yells ‘revenge.’ When i see fans on the blogs talking about giving them another chance it sickens me to the stomach, these fans must have blood like gnats p, 50k per week and the fat twat ties his laces rather that put a defender under pressure who was two yards away, beyond disgraceful, if RdM selects him then he’s lost me. Flab, Bacuna, Sinclair were a disease inside Villa, Lescott, Richardson, Richards and Guzan were just crepe but at least tried.

  3. steamer

    RE Teresa May, she was saying what a fantastic job Camoron was doing and within 24hrs had booted his entire front bench except for the worst one, Hunt, she’s a liar who’s buggered up both cabinet appointments she’s had.

    Terrible about what happened in Nice.

  10. Mark King

    The Nice killings are awful but I am amazed that this has not happened many times over, Things like bombs before security at air ports, shootings on motorways or pubs, either there are very few perpertrators or the full purpose of these killings is way more than revenge IMO. It would be very easy to pick a low security spot and kill people and escape, very few do, its a one way trip.

  11. John Lerwill

    I see that Lyon are enquiring about Gueye.

    My view is that despite the stats I think he proved he has one big flaw that prevents him being a good player. And that’s giving away free kicks just outside the penalty area.

  12. DarrenO

    Opinion here is that May is keeping her friends close and her enemies closer with the likes of Johnson as foreign secretary (good luck with that). But it will be a case of either he buggers it up himself and therefore no longer a threat to her leadership or he does really well and May gets kudos for the appointment.

    From having walked away after Brexit, Johnson is firmly in the thick of it in terms of future negotiations.

    Any screw all that, Villa, said it before after years of mediocrity, i’m loathe to get too excited particularly because so many of the players thru on and off-fields actions (lack of) caused us to be relegated. I don’t see them now suddenly having pride in the shirt.

    With RDM playing catch up on player assessment and the 2015/16 highlights dvd having being recorded over with re-runs of Judge Judy, he’s got a big task, he has my full support but it would be unfair to assess how this team will do until we see it a few months in with a system and the right players for that system.

    SWFC should be ashamed of themselves, above most PL prices and its championship football, Dr. T should subsidise the cost, 3000 tickets times £12 pound off is only 36k, 30 quid a ticket is more palatable especially as i’m thinking of Leeds away in December.

    UTV

  14. John Lerwill

    Cowans could be playing!

    Er, no, not Sid but Henry! 😉 It looks like a run-out for a few youngsters…

    Full squad to face Telford: Pierluigi Gollini, Viktor Johansson, Tommy Elphick, Nathan Baker, Easah Suliman, Niall Mason, Aly Cissokho, Idrissa Gana, Ashley Westwood, Andre Green, Harry McKirdy, Jordan Ayew, Scott Sinclair, Rushian Hepburn-Murphy, Henry Cowans, Rudy Gestede.

    http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/confirmed-aston-villas-line-up-11622920?

  17. B62 Villa

    Gutted couldn’t go to Telford, although it seems the same old story where certain players are concerned. I hope Burnley aren’t watching Wastewood or we will be stuck with the useless lump of shite, our strikers aren’t good enough we need 2 in ( McCormick and Kodak)and shift Gabby, Kozak and Gestede

  18. steamer

    Not going to Telford or Stourport, just can’t get enthused about Villa at all, just a few years ago i’d have walked there, seen one game in around five years and don’t even watch them on MotD, thats what football does to you, golf, rugby anything preferable to watching what this game has become especially the Rsoles who play it and the ones who charge 45 quid for a championship game, vermin.

  19. steamer

    Apparently someone spat at Elphick and another called Ayew an immigrant and told him to foff, booed off at Telford, wtf is going on ?

  21. steamer

    Leicester falling apart, should approach Pearson about signings to replace his previous ones who have gone to bigger clubs. Should have enough to stay up though.

  22. John Lerwill

    Well, a not very great result at Telford, but a more inspiring one at Worcester, with the youngsters shaping up well it would seem.

    Yes, these are low-key practice matches, but at least there seems to be a bit more zest shown compared to the last 2 or 3 years pre-season activities.

    It looks as though Sanchez, Gana and Ayew will be away fairly quickly, with Bacuna also to be ‘outed’ by the looks of it. And a few more – if other clubs will take ’em!

    I don’t quite understand what’s what with Traore. I can’t believe he’s *that* injured!

  23. steamer

    Think Traore’s been spending to much time with Flabby, learning how to rip off the club by doing f-all but taking a fortune for it. Talking of lazy fat toerags, when’s he going ?
    Apparently OM can’t afford Sanchez but might be selling a winger to Spuds for 10m, so may even come back for Gana. Bordeaux after Ayew.
    Bacuna can’t make his mind up between Barca or Juventus.

  24. Frem

    Dr. Tony Xia ‏@Dr_TonyXia 3m3 minutes ago

    Quality is more important than quantity. Doing everything right is much better than doing a lots. You have to believe this….

    WTF does he mean by this ? Still more signings I hope. He is right in what he says though

  26. villa@herts

    I was at Telford and except for a few drunks who shouted abuse (and never returned from the bar after half timeI) I saw no abuse and the players were applauded off. Wasn’t a great match lots of missed opportunities & certainly during first half they looked like they had never p!sure together before, which they probably hadn’t given the number of young players on the pitch.

    Villa later it like a train in match & Telford played like it was their cup final. After the break villa stepped it up and could have had 6 or 7 goals. Telford goalie was man of the match. Big Improvement came when Heburn-Murphey came on, he was everywhere and seemed to have particular good connection with Ayew, he may even of laid on his goal.

    Sinclair looked like he didn’t want to be there also Cissockho looked like he couldn’t care and did nothing but mess things up till he popped up with the winner!

    So unless it happened before or after the game there was no face abuse and as I said just a few drunks who shouted some abused and booed at half time and even this was drowned out by applause! Didn’t see the Worcester game but from what I’ve read sounds like it was a better game.

  27. steamer

    Good to see a few academy kids coming thru’ If Lamebert was still boss they’d have to wait until they’re 30 before their debuts.

  28. James Gill

    After the last 5 years of hell under the worst owner in pl history,its going to take time to turn this ship around,me nothing more would please me to see entire squad shipped out all everyone of them,they all stink of last season
    Our new manager has signed 3 out of 5 positions that remi highlighted last xmas and maybe with a bit of backing we could have got out of mess but thats water under bridge, some players will have to be used this season out of necessity, hutton clark baker cissko wastewood kozak but if we get promotion they are first out the door, others like guzan lescott richards bacuna and gabby are not fit to wear my club shirt not even leisure wear.
    Still don t know if i can look forward to season,when you see our fixtures no big 4 who under mon we where competing with and even beating regular,players like laursen mellborg bouma milner young and carew compared to fulham preston and wigan and above players .
    The good doc plus de matteo have a lot of work to do to win back our hearts

  29. Trinity

    It sounds like Ayew is staying. Maybe God told him to stay at Villa. I’d be happy to see Ayew stay. Hopefully, Gabby is replaced by someone with a bit of fire in the belly and a spine.

  30. steamer

    Good news about Ayew.
    When you look at the players in DOR’s post its frightening to see how far the standard has dropped in recent years, they could probably still get in our team now.

  33. B62 Villa

    Good to see the youngsters stepping up, I hope as the season gets ever closer we start to see a few of the unflushables leaving the club , being replaced by some quality. I still feel we are short in key areas, especially up front, where I would like to see Kozak and possibly Gestede shipped out, Ayew may still leave as it seems he changes his mind daily. I see Marseille are fed up with top flight football and have decided to buy our midfield from last season!!! But seriously why loan assets if they want to leave surely selling is the better option for us, if Marseille can’t afford them tough shit we will sell to those who can , as we also need to spend big.
    I see the good doctor Tony came unstuck on Twitter , I’m all for communication and applaud his efforts, but he should have an advisor with him after someone got him to retweet a photo of Jimmy Saville with a birthday congratulations, having been duped by a fan( prob a nose).
    I see the the decision to leave the EU isn’t looking so bad now, Trade deals being sorted without the hassle of the beurocratic nonsense( it’s taken Canada 10 years to sort a trade deal out with Brussels!!!), France u dear a constant threat of terror, Deutche bank in turmoil, Greek economy in turmoil, Empty cash machines across Italy and downward spiralling economy, Spain with record high young unemployment, Turkey( who are trying to join) in absolute chaos and military coups failing, constant economic migration etc etc Thank god for the 52%. 😉

  34. Heroes-and-Villans

    Dr x is great on twitter…if ayew stays its a massive plus for us. could get close to 20 goals in the champ.

    Got a feeling there wont be massive outgoing which id like to see…its going to take a few transfer windows for us to see the back of all the unflushables.

    Need 2 strikers, a goal scoring midfielder and a winger.

  36. John Lerwill

    B62: “Thank god for the 52%”

    You think we’re safe after Brexit?

    Sorry, I’d doubt that 100%. It seems the UK economy forecasts have dipped a good deal in the air of uncertainty surrounding our future, with Brexit still not a certainty.

    There’s a way to go yet, and it may not be good (er, in conventional thinking terms).

  37. Heroes-and-Villans

    To go this transfer window has to be imo guzan, bacuna, lescott, Sinclair.

    Westy might go but gabby, hutton might take a while to leave. Only have 2 weeks really to get done. Wyness, rdm and the dr are all in china for 3 days!

  38. Jenny Truman

    Hello everyone –
    Great to read such a positive leader John – and I am sharing your optimism as we have new owner, new manager, and hopefully a change in philosophy at VP. Been cheered by RDM and Xia’s approach so far – “quality not quantity” (Paul Lambert note ), promoting the youth and although Xia has had his fingers burnt on twitter (agree that he should have advice on this). It did make me smile though – what next re-tweeting a pic of Aston Villla ‘legend’ Kevin Francis to mark his birthday. But they all do it – Cameron doesn’t know the difference between WHU and AV either. But the sentiment is good – can you imagine RLerner engaging with the fans on twitter!

    I am doing a mental skills work shop in Ladywood, Birmingham tomorrow – a very diverse ethnic community .. . There are quite a few refugees who have had harrowing times and deserve much more as human beings. Anyway, the work shop is all about confidence and self belief and I am going to play very happy uplifting music for when people come in – to get them in a positive vibe. So I am doing my play list – which is where I need some imput. If you have the time can you post your happiest song or songs – I am sure Runtingz can help me please. 🙂

    ST75 – have a great holiday – when you get back I am still on for visiting Aston Hall with Steamer if y ou are up for it.

  39. Jenny Truman

    Forgot to say , delighted Tayls and Brian Little are being involved . That’s a huge improvement from the last regime which seemed hell bent on keeping ex pros and Villa connections out .

  40. DarrenO

    Hi Jenny

    Shiny Happy People – REM and yer wan from the B52s -just sprung to mind, not worried if no one likes it on here, just writing down my thoughts 🙂

    Good news coming from the China visit, RDM is playing it safe offering a clean slate and agree with the above it make take a few transfer windows to have the team we want/need. It makes sense even if we know exactly who should be shown the door right now. Expect more signings which can only be good for the squad.

    UTV

  43. John Lerwill

    Jenny,

    A lovely post from you, and I am really intrigued about the Ladywood workshop. I have an attachment with that area as my gt-grandfather lived in that vicinity 140 years ago, when it housed many very skilled artisans of the growing metropolis of that time. I’m aware that it’s character has muchly changed over the recent decades – but people are people, no matter who they are.

    Boy, did my gt-grandfather like his contemporary Joe Chamberlain! And Mrs. May has a Brummie chief advisor who was the author of a book “Our Joe” which seems to have been published just for the benefit (and stimulus) of Tories. In other words, Timothy equates JC to being a Tory man pure and simple, but he came from somewhat different roots.

  45. steamers75

    Hi Jenny
    Thanks , Turkey here we come . about 20 villa so we’ll be safe , (to be honest you could get killed walking any street in Brum ) the heats gonna kill me ,
    Ladywood !! is this the place where they are asking for old suits ect so the people can wear them for interviews .
    Music …. Im in the mood for dancing The Nolans , ))) always make sure l got clean underpants on for this song ,
    oh gawd l dread to think what SWV is gonna come up with . probably his fav , Dance yourself dizzy . when he gets going on the dance floor he looks like a vibrator a female elephant could use ,
    On the suits also dont have anything swv has to offer either , or they will think they have come straight out of nick having been sent down in the 80s , he still wears his moonboots .
    had a shite weekend so really looking forward to this hols . see you all soon and have a great week all , and you swv ,
    steamer see you tomorrow about the cooking fats ,
    Jenny see you as soon as l get back off hols , coffee ? xxxxxxxx your daughter looked stunning for the Prom , and yes l agree with everything you said about Proms .
    Frem you still got my GOLD undies mate ?? could do with them mate . .

  46. Jenny Truman

    Thanks for the music suggestions – including the funny ones from Andrew and Steamer . Cheers For the REM Darren – I need something to break up the Lionel Ritchie – who was the best performer I’ve ever seen when I saw him a few weeks ago .

    Thanks for your comment John – I’m sad to report Ladywood has become a soulless victim of council planning – high rise blocks of flats , run down and poverty stricken . It has zero money spent on it – the council have withdrawn funding for the community centre and there are many young families here – some refugees , many different cultures . I am working with a wonderful lady called Patricia White , former BBC journalist , who set up a charity called suited for success. It’s to help ppl get back into work – and she had the great idea of getting city firms employees to donate their suits so the unemployed could go to interviews dressed smartly . She helps in every way she can to support them back into jobs – CVs , interpreters etc. Bham uni did a sports psychology course for the young homeless , stuff on motivation , self belief , confidence etc which was apparently very successful but they couldn’t do any more because of no funding . So she asked me if I’d volunteer to do similar for her job seekers . She also set up the first food bank in the area . Jo Chamberlain would turn in his grave .

  47. John Lerwill

    Jenny,

    “council have withdrawn funding”, but there is, perhaps, a “why” they haven’t … like their grant from Westminster being stripped to the bone. Though I hate to accept it, the council really does have to put money is where it’s most needed – and, fair dos, they do refer to the locals to ask what the priorities should be. They’re only carrying out what they’ve been told, and it’s painful.

    What is left is actually what Cameron’s idea of a “One Country” is about … people doing maybe 50% extra (and gratis) to make up for the lost services.

    I was involved in Balsall Heath some 40 years ago, and if I were younger and in the right position I’d offer my help this time too.

  48. steamer

    I see happy clapper Dan Bardell is chirping his usual drivel, forgive and forget the Rsoles who deliberately got us relegated with their bad attitudes and unprofessional ways, bet it took him five years to realise what was happening before he showed any dissent. Most of the modern footy fans i meet haven’t got a clue about the game or the teams they support, just a day out like grandad had.

  49. John Lerwill

    BTW, Jenny…

    They’re talking in Westminster about whether to go ahead with Trident this week … I would be staggered if they decided not to, despite it being about the biggest white elephant ever … worse, even, than HS2.

    Just think of what could be done with the cash saved if they didn’t go ahead with that lot.

  50. steamer

    Ladywood is unbelievably run down, shame because its actually B1. Some good folk over there that just need a helping hand. What a good idea about the suits.
    Camorons “one nation’ was slightly flawed when food banks were deemed necessary. I always thought that the Tory theory of money flowing down from the top was bs.

  51. John Lerwill

    Steamer,

    Actually I quoted the wrong name for it … Cameron actually referred to the “Big Society”. But it was another take on “One Nation” … and, as you say, how everyone benefits because of the trickle-down effect.

    Bless ’em, I’m sure they feel comfortable thinking about that when they go to bed after their brandy and cigar.

  53. Jenny Truman

    I agree both . Yes it’s the government who have denied the poor and vulnerable . Best tweet last week in response to Osborne’s smug, delusional ” I’ve helped the economy ” was from a comedian (forget his name ) in which he said “food banks , food banks, food banks you w%# Ker. “. Clare short was MP for Ladywood until she resigned and I always thought her a v good MP .

  57. runtings

    unfortunately for politics the system mp’s have to work under doesn’t really allow for putting the majority before the bankers

    until we go back to the first systems used by man for a society which had the motto ”If it’s not good for everybody it’s no good at all” politics will always leave a lot of people in jeopardy – imo

  59. Trinity

    Hello, Jenny.

    Try A Little Kindness (Glen Campbell) is an uplifting song I have always enjoyed.
    Valerie? Must chek that out.
    “Yes it’s the government who have denied the poor and vulnerable .” Same problem here. Now there’s a housing crisis.

  60. steamer

    He doesn’t say much but sometimes RdM comes out with complete tripe “the Championship is tougher than the EPL” what a load of utter knackers.

  61. John Lerwill

    Runtings: “until we go back to the first systems used by man for a society which had the motto ”If it’s not good for everybody it’s no good at all” politics will always leave a lot of people in jeopardy”

    Wow … spot on, mate!

    In which case it’s about time two thirds of the Labour Party went and formed their own party – they have forgotten your principle; a basic principle of socialism.

  62. steamer

    Bearing in mind that the English manager who finished highest last season was Pardew who came 15th, and only three Englishmen managed in the EPL last season, its pretty conclusive that English managers are crepe so why are the FA interviewing English managers and in particular relegation specialist Steve Bruce ? It doesn’t take a lot of working out even for the idiots at the FA. Fabio Capello had the highest win ratio of any England boss yet he was booted for laughing stock Roy Hodgson, a decision that provided hilarity in mainland Europe, it really makes you wonder.

  63. John Lerwill

    Steamer,

    I think that what RdiM really means is that the motivation factor is *perhaps* higher in the Championship – to get into the top tier. Perhaps in the Championship they’re more prepared to bust a gut to achieve their target?

  66. John Lerwill

    The Centre for European Reform (CER) have just put out this stark reminder:

    Britain’s diplomatic service has shrunk in recent years, with embassies in Europe suffering most. Many UK-based policy officers have been replaced by local staff. As long as much of the substantive business with EU member-states could be done through their representatives at the EU, or at monthly meetings of EU foreign ministers, these cuts did not matter much.

    I think people have just not cottoned on to just how much our commitment to Europe has left its mark … because of the EU we had less bureaucracy in *some* ways.

    But another overhead is the fact that there are so many, many UK laws that no have to be re-phrased assuming we go down the Brexit route. It’s a mammoth job, and will doubtless leave some holes to be found by lawyers.

  69. Heroes-and-Villans

    Rdm says we def want a striker (obv) and maybe more attacking players depending on what the next 4 weeks brings. what does that mean….its obv we need a goal scoring mid and pace too.

  70. steamer

    One more striker will give him good options with Russian and McKirdy joining the squad and Greene also intigrated. Need one out though mmm Gabby. Sinclair would be useful in that div but has no fight or effort in him, he’ll do well with Celtic in that standard.

  71. DarrenO

    The rebuild has started, 3 in and more to come, I understand we’ve been mediocre for years and the current crop are responsible for our relegation but…

    We have new owners, a new board, new manager and backroom staff, these things will take time and I fully expect the ship to be turned around for the 2017/18 season, if we get a playoff spot this season and return to the prem, it will be ahead of schedule in my book.

    We absolutely have to get rid of the dross, Lescott, Richards, Guzan and Gabby are the main ones for me, all others you could argued either tried to contribute or weren’t good enough, those 4 took the piss out of our club both on and off the pitch.

    UTV

  72. runtings

    i love k clark due to the fact he is one of our own – but 4.5mil we have to rip there hand off for that bid

    despite kc being a villan i have come to the conclusion that he isnt going to be good enough for us and is always making huge gaffs in games —-take the money please

  74. steamer

    Runtingz,
    Agree mate, Clarks a decent player but also a liability at times, he could be top class or disappear to some crappy little club like the vermin.

  76. Heroes-and-Villans

    I think gabby will stay! strikers ayew, gabby, gestede, kozac. Ideally youd be wanting kozac and gabby replaced.

    Looks like any incomings depends on the trimming of the squad.

  79. Jenny Truman

    Evening all
    Well the workshop went well with happy music and I’ve enjoyed watching and checking out your suggestions . From Trin’s apt Try a Little Kindness to Steamers buttercup singalong – loved the vids btw.

    The Try a Little Kindness seems to be in short supply in the UK – too much WIFM (what’s in it for me ). Having caught up with most of the threads tonight and in particular the Labour Party Corbyn hatchet job , I have to agree with steamer – Hilary Benn hasn’t got his father’s integrity or standards it seems. It is ironic that Tony Benn, a man of principles and great intelligent was similarly outcast by the Labour Party and the media and branded a ‘loonie leftie’. Hilary Benn has sold his soul for popularity and before the Labour Party write off Corbyn as being unelectable , look what happened to Cameron when he tried to second guess the electorate – ppl are disillusioned with new labour and maybe more are looking to solid socialist principles and equality and fairness .

    On a lighter note , my daughter has a new boyfriend ……and he is a blue nose ….as is his dad and so on . I’ve been the responsible parent and told him he can only continue seeing her if he sits with us in the Holte Ende when AV beat the blues next season , joining in with s#%t on the city

    Had to laf at steamers comments on RDM “what’s he want a holiday for he’s been out of work for a year”. Haha QUITE .

  80. John Lerwill

    Jenny: “Hilary Benn hasn’t got his father’s integrity or standards it seems”

    Sadly you’re right. In my view it’s all down to the mainstream centre-party approach that Blair has left as his legacy. And the so-called “professional politicians” (talked of very accurately by Peter Oborne) that have cluttered Parliament this last 20 years.

    The majority of Labour MPs have forgotten their roots, it would seem. And I’ve just got angry with my Labour MP (for a middle-road man he’s not bad actually) for voting for Trident while a couple of his Birmingham colleagues voted against. Looks as though I’ve got to move to Northfield to find the MP I want! 😉

    *Real* Labour must be closer to the lines that Corbyn and his friends represent. The rest of em are just Liberal Democrats in reality. And yet – listening to the young Kinnock on TV last night – you’d think that there was something evil about Corbyn.

  81. John Lerwill

    Jenny,

    I’m very surprised that you have not laid down the law and told your daughter’s boyfriend that he *has to* change his allegiance!

    I’m afraid for your daughter – supporting Small heath surely shows a lack of savoir faire! 😉

    BTW, whenever I think of Small Heath I will never forget that they started to call themselves “Birmingham” (in 1904) when Villa (temporarily) left Birmingham. There was a local government change that affected Villa’s status as Brummies and so the Small Heath lot just took advantage to up their status. Not that it’s done ’em a power of good, has it! Or the City itself for that matter.

  82. steamer

    Jen,
    So sorry to hear about your daughter,have you tried to get her adopted ?
    S75 showed me the prom photo’s, stunning, takes after you.

    Jess Phillips, professional publicity seeker –
    The Birmingham Yardley MP told Channel 4 News she would find it “incredibly difficult” to continue as a Labour MP if Mr Corbyn won, but declined to say whether she would sit as an independent.

    Advice, pi55 right off although that would mean finding a job, safe to say that you’ll stay and their won’t be a bye election.

  83. steamer

    Jen,
    Just a thought, try leaving a bar of soap by your front door, its like garlic to vampires, once he works out the function of soap he’ll keep well away.

  84. Mark King

    Hello folks I see Guzan is being told he can go for nothing apparently.

    I don’t think we can have true socialism in this world when so many can’t get work or won’t get work to support it properly. We live in a supposed free market dominated by massive corporation’s that dictate what the world does next . There is no real central code any more like “do unto others” except I’m all right jack, pursuing wealth is not a problem its what you do with it, there will always be people more capable or bothered to use the system to gain wealth than others who want a simple life neither is wrong. What is wrong is the destroying of all around us to achieve mans dominance and get what you can as you only live once, that may be true but it stinks.

  86. Heroes-and-Villans

    yep guzan going for free and we may be getting 5mill for Richards! If we can get 3mill for sinlclair that’s nearly 10 mill for those 3 off our books 🙂

    Ill be much more excited knowing bacuna, sanzhez, Richards, lescott, Sinclair, guzan have gone. Hutton westy gabby Clarke the next batch after that to go please, might take another transfer window though 🙁

  87. Heroes-and-Villans

    what formation do we think rdm will play I think 4231

    Goalini
    Hutton Okore Elphick Amavi
    Tishiba Gardner
    Adama Gill Grealish
    Ayew

    Question marks over adama and gill, we need another 3 signings. Id like another midfielder next to Tish, a winger and cam and striker. Are we really going into the season with hutton as rb again!!

  88. steamers75

    Jenny . bring him to the coffee shop when we meet up , I’ll turn him, )
    Toshiba ??? Cambridge Audio all the way .
    well off to Turkey in a few hours , heats gonna kill me , gonna take a Ruck sack with me and throw it at some of the locals and run ……… see how they like it .

    anyway hope your all enjoying the sun. Have a good few weeks ,

    Steamer if you can get a fiver for the cats let them go mate , the little fucker is in a strop because l put flea powder down the other week , but for gods sake dont try and pick her up like last time .
    Jenny XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

  89. John Lerwill

    Mark: “I don’t think we can have true socialism in this world when so many can’t get work or won’t get work to support it properly. We live in a supposed free market dominated by massive corporation’s that dictate what the world does next . There is no real central code any more like “do unto others” except I’m all right jack, pursuing wealth is not a problem its what you do with it…”

    Well, the issue with that is because few see socialism as being a realistic option, they vote Tory (or Republican). But when they’re down on their uppers they instead want socialism! 😉

    To believe in social;ism (of the finest variety) is to place your faith in what the great spiritual teachers have taught us. Not to believe in (enlightened) socialism probably means you’re at least an agnostic or an atheist.

    You’re right that there’s nothing wrong in money per se, but the problem is that everyone seems now to be taught it’s the chasing of wealth that’s “good”. A vision of the “common good” is lacking amongset our living leaders.

  90. Mark King

    JL- I don’t suppose I do believe in a god per se, I do think there is an intelligence to the universe or nature that we don’t understand. What that intelligences aims or lack of aims is I do not think we know either. Most of what we know about the spiritual is given to us through dreams/meditation practice/drugs or visitations that don’t appear to happen much these days ( if they do are taken with a pinch of salt). We don’t appear to know why we are here and god does not seem to think it important enough to let the world know in a format that they might actually take notice of. If we are god experiencing itself then there is no aim other than learning? and as God is supposed to have the answers wouldn’t it be nice to cut to the chase? we have a cryptic god it seems

  91. John Lerwill

    Mark,

    “Intelligence” can equate to “God”, can’t it? “It” doesn’t have to have a specific name, simply that perhaps there should be a recognition that such a “being” does exist … and is active.

    “God” has (in fact) told the world *many times* through various people “to let the world know in a format that they might actually take notice of”, but the trouble is we let our ego get in the way and – hey presto! – before you know it, after a few generations the Message is forgotten.

    As you may know, the Hindus describe time as consisting of a number of great ages that they call yugas. Unfortunately (or fortunately, as there is very much a positive) we are now traversing in the densest of those yugas – the Kali Yuga. Hence why we can’t see the wood for the trees unless we work at it. And by “work” I mean spiritual work on developing understanding.

    Though “God” knows all, we have the answers within ourselves: we just need to wake up to discover them. That, I believe, is why we were created, and there is evidence to suggest that in the early yugas we knew how to go about it. Since then, living conditions have become more dense and we have forgotten our real selves.

    I’m working on some papers to help – they’re not yet complete. See http://www.lerwill-life.org.uk/spirit/source.htm and links off it.

  94. Mark King

    Thanks JL you would think with all the evidence of past civilizations the worlds religions would revise their stories a little. Honesty is missing from all walks of life these days. I like the idea of socialism but people now rely on doctors for their health while they demand goods that poison the land, us and their children. Companies are happy to supply anything regardless and cause illness while also profiting from the supposed cures that they sell you until death, its a great scheme we are all participating in and the likes of Labour demand health care for the poor instead of demanding better food etc its a joke really. People want it all ways but I’m afraid that is not possible.

  95. B62 Villa

    Pat Murphy reporting that there has been no bid for Jonathon Kodjia, yet some are reporting £5m has been bid( won’t be enough tbh), and we are concentrating on offloading players. Guzan on a free, Veretout on loan, Sinclair to Celtic ? Richards to Sunderland for £5m? Clark to WBA £4.5m?
    Ayew subject of a couple of £8m bids? Sanchez £1.5m to Marseille all been mentioned this week, although no more chat on Burnley bidding for wastewood. I’d still like more quality brought in as I think this squad will struggle to make the play offs even with Ayew if he goes mid table is more likely. Only 18 days to go until this’s hit gets real, I’d like us go get at least 2 more in by then and hit the deck running., then get 2 more in before the window closes.

  96. John Lerwill

    Mark: “People want it all ways but I’m afraid that is not possible.”

    That’s true!

    But it’s the way in which we think that has to change, and that will happen … not far away.

  97. Mark King

    Hope so JL with all the stabbings bombings etc going on something is going very wrong at the moment

    B62- this is a very frustrating time as essentially RDMs hands are partially tied due to not knowing who what and where players will go and what numbers he truly needs, its doing my nut in.

  98. steamer

    B62,
    Agree, don’t see this team challenging at all, as you said at least three more players needed.

    Another 30 years and we’ll see a return to feudalism. I doubt ifJezza will see too many more birthdays, he’ll go the way of Robin Cook, Princess Di, David Kelly, bit suspicious about Arthur Askey too and Kylie in Corrie, strange.

  99. steamer

    Spoke to a few who went to Telford and they’re not impressed.
    Brizzle Rovers soon, hopefully SWV & PP will give us a report. Had some marvelous games against them in the third, for some reason they and Wrexham were always bosters.

  100. Frem

    We are cursed. We get close selling Richards then Big Sam goes to England.

    We value Shitclair at 5 million and yet only bid 5 million for Kodjia who can actually play football ? Crazy club. he’s worth 10 million. Good all round striker.

    Still worried about us. We have so many players who need to go but proably won’t

    Hope to see our strongest side for 60 mins tonight.

    3 thousand going. I would off but I’m on night shift

  103. Mark King

    Gollini, Hutton, Okore, Baker, Bennett, Green, Westwood, Tshibola, Ayew, Hepburn-Murphy, Grealish.

    subs v @Official_BRFC: Bunn, Lescott, Sinclair, Gestede, Elphick, Gardner, Gana, Cissokh

  105. steamer

    Sam Allardyce, well, well, well, you have to laugh, the best man for the job, arf, arf, the fans have been betrayed yet again, Taylor, Hodgson, Hobble all clueless. Who chooses these mugs ? an Untied director, a crisp seller and a bloke who’s never played in a league game, in fact none of them have. Wholesale resignations within three years.
    The new rules are embarrassing. get frustrated by incompetent/cheating refs, call them what they are and your off while they’re free to pick up 1,500 the next week, I give you the ref who couldn’t see the Villa strikers shorts being pulled down as he was about to score !! FFS he was two yards away, this knob went on to deny us two penalties in the Cup Final.

  109. steamer

    What actually is that colour on the new shirt ? is certainly ‘aint claret, not even burgundy, whatever it is its bloody horrible and whoever approved it is a total knob and should be booted. I know Fox set up the deal but surely we have someone who isn’t colour blind who could sort it out.

  113. B62 Villa

    Mark
    I agree it’s all up in the air, but time waits for no man and we need to get in another striker, if he wants Jonathon Kodija he should make a proper mover, Bristol City have confirmed no bids made, if it’s Ross mcormick then pony up the dough and let’s move on, the way our players are leaving/possibly leaving we should have enough £££ floating around and wages freed up for RDM to get what he needs in place for the season ahead. I still think another 4/5 May leave so I would say we need 1xRB, 2x creative midfielder /wingers 1x St as a minimum .
    Stan not getting a playing contract is the right decision, he has done amazing to pull through his illness and get into shape, but at 37 it would have only been sentimental and he clearly isn’t up to a full playing role, perhaps as a role model for the youngsters.

  114. Frem

    At least there was no gabby. Finally might piss off

    Tonight showed we are still a few players off a real first 11. Need a right back, winger and another central forward to partner Ayew.

    Gil and Veretout gone. Shame really. would have been decent in the champ

    We have major issues on players going out though. We have 9 high earners we can’t sell

  116. John Lerwill

    Mark: “with all the stabbings bombings etc going on something is going very wrong at the moment”

    Yes, but also a big big increase in legal high drug issues – apart from other matters. Watched a film the other night on that topic: some of those cases appeared to be walking zombies, and one extra so according to ambulance and police people.

    Meanwhile Mrs. May does her bit of mauling as well, in PMQs.

  117. Mark King

    JL yes mate when your first thought is stab someone then they cannot be in their right minds, the Intelligence of these people astound me.

  118. steamer

    Gotta Laugh –
    Sam Allardyce – England manager.
    Paul Pogba – 105m.
    Petrov – Villa legend.
    Come back Brian Rix, plenty of material here for you.

  120. steamer

    Does anyone remember when the FA bought in –
    The throw in must be taken from where the ball went out, the referee will stand opposite the spot.
    Any player leaving the pitch without permission will be cautioned.

    Where did they go ?

    Now does anyone remember the following directives ?
    Defenders can maul and drag the opposition down on corners without being penalised.
    If a top five club is in danger of dropping crucial points the referee is entitled to add on several minutes play, or just until they score, this shall be known as ‘Fergie time.’
    Fouls in the penalty areas of top five clubs shall be ignored if committed by said top five club, if committed OR NOT by the opposition they shall be deemed ‘obvious’ and awarded.

  121. B62 Villa

    What do managers see in Ashley Westwood, he offers literally nothing, he doesn’t protect the back 4, can’t tackle, can’t take set pieces , doesn’t score goals or take the game to the opposition offensively, yet he is a regular starter and avoids the gaffers criticism , despite the fans being able to see clearly his faults. Is this because the rest of our midfielders are shit?? It seems we are set for another season of sideways and backwards passing and the inability to beat the first man from a dead ball. I look at our potential starting 11 and it worries me, especially if Ayew and Amavi leave. Sinclair yet again looked the worst player on the pitch last night, let’s hope we accept Celtics next bid for him, despite our lack of creativity.
    I’d like us to go out and show some real intent in the transfer market, Kodija and/or Mcormick would show that, we are also desperate for a RB at LB we have Amavi with Bennett as cover( not ideal but I’d get rid of Cisshoko ) and baker can also do a short term job there if needed. Centre half we have Elphick and one other from Okores/Clark/Baker/Lescott/Richards( who if stays should play RB and never CB) . Midfield we have a lot of numbers but the new boy aside and Grealish the rest are awful, Veretout may come good but he looks off as does Gana who may look better in this league, Sanchez is a goner , can Gards step up finally?? We still lack width and the ability to cross which means other than Ayew or RHM our strikers are about as potent as a pint of calibre.
    DOR is right when he says promotion or playoffs this season would be a bonus and unexpected, I think we will finish around 8/9/10 unless we see some real improvement in the transfer window, I als think we could be in this division for a lot longer than some of our fans think ie Leeds/Sheff Weds etc

  122. Trinity

    B62 Villa
    Yeah, the tranfers seem underwhelming so far considering the aim of promotion. They’ll need to get moving pronto.
    Steamer
    Gabby a legend. That flopped, didn’t it? I agree, with the decision not to sign Stan as a player. Hope he takes up the non playing role offered to him.

  123. Heroes-and-Villans

    Its getting a bit silly now re stan. Since when does having an illness make you a football legend.

    We have loads of work to do in our squad, at the moment we will be mid table at best. We lack pace, creativity and goals and conceded atypical goal last night, anyone who just runs at our defence we cant handle. We need 5 or 6 players if we want to challenge play offs. rb cb cm cam winger and 2 strikers.

    If we go into the season with hutton rb and westy in the middle im giving up

  125. steamer

    Agree with all of the posts today, some very good points made imo.
    it makes me laugh when folk slag Grealish off and make excuses for Wastewood, IMO Grealish has turned that mental barrier that held him back, i’m expecting him to have a superb season, possibly the England squad and attract the attention of the big spenders.
    I know Guzan has had a poor couple of seasons but lets not forget his good times, i hope he does well at Boro’ and our fans give him generous applause if he returns, he is actually one of the better keepers we’ve had in my 54 years of watching Villa.
    Possibly Greene has played his way into RdM’s plans.

  126. steamer

    Well Melania what attracted you to multi billionaire Donald Trump ?

    Donald, whats this red button i’ve just pushed ?

    When can we visit Londonland ?

    The Republican Party is like the Muppet show with less intelligence.

  127. John Lerwill

    Steamer,

    It’s a joy to read your lateral thinking take on football! 😉

    Yes, I also agree that Jack seems to have got over his juvenile philosophy and may well show ’em how this season.

    Good point on Guzan. I agree. Not happy with all the comment on Westwood though … No, he most definitely isn’t the perfect article (especially defensively) but I’ve seen enough bits of talent to continue to give my backing – at this level anyway. He doesn’t often score but he’s often sent in thudding shots which have prompted good saves from keepers.

  128. B62 Villa

    Steamer
    I’m glad Guzan is leaving, he had a purple patch after he re signed but overall he is a poor keeper. I have this horrible feeling Ayew and Amavi will leave too late in the window to be replaced properly, leaving us with possibly an even worse squad overall than last season( if that is possible). It is now becoming extremely frustrating that we aren’t going for it and promotion is more a dream than an ambition, judging by our transfer dealings. Yes they haven’t been here long however they knew to stand any chance they had to hit the deck running, and it hasn’t happened yet. I get the window still has plenty of time remaining, but we can’t afford to get off to a poor start, we need to start strong build confidence and kick on especially after the dismal effort last season.

  129. B62 Villa

    JL
    We are going to have to agree to disagree where Westwood is concerned, he is beyond ordinary and I don’t think the drop in level we now find ourselves at, will make any difference as he can’t master the basics required to flourish. But h isn’t the only one, that squad from last year needs tearing apart.

  130. John Lerwill

    B62,

    “We are going to have to agree to disagree where Westwood is concerned” and then you give me further arguments! 🙂

    Yes, I just flatly disagree. He’s by no means a world-beater but I think he does a fair amount, and a lot of it constructively.

    In my opinion! 😉

    But if we can find a better player, then good.

  131. Heroes-and-Villans

    Im not a westwood fan at all. This modern type of midfielder that its just ok to pass sideways 5 yards. Does not tackle, is not dominating and does not assist or score. waste of a shirt. Our midfield is terrible, needs re building around tish.

    Agree on grealish steamer, I think he could have a great season. Don’t agree on guzan though, no surprise we have to give him away fro free

  132. B62 Villa

    The right hand flank of our squad is extremely weak( and that’s being kind) Bacuna and Hutton are the only real right sided players unless you count Richards , no wonder we leak when attacked down this side.

  133. runtings

    I am just hoping we can get the 5mil for westy as suggested in the press – works hard but so not good enough for a club like aston villa

    the amavi links to liverpoo started at the end of last season – i would love the club to persuade him to stay along with Ayew — if they do stay it will be a huge indication of where the club is heading

  137. steamers75

    Steamer been ringing you on whatsap mate. Its not P P I.
    Well you wouldnt think a coup had taken place here . Taxi driver said . You English not worried still party all the times. Not like Germans .scared to go out. Thats a positive i suppose fake bloody Strongbow though. Oh hum .

  138. steamer

    Another stiff at the FA, little experience and sounds like a knob, but then so do all the others.

    Potato head must think he’s highly rated now his had his Engurland interview, if he’s waiting for a top job then i hope he has savings because all he’s fit for is the likes of Naaarwich. Dear oh dear he’s a fat git now.

  139. steamer

    Talking of Spudhead, he has a long history of leaving clubs in the mire, not the most loyal. I remember when he refused to play for Naaarwich because they wouldn’t sell him to Untied for less than they wanted. He was crepe anyway, as mobile as a wardrobe without castors.

  140. steamer

    Think we’ll see a few arrivals now but what scares me is that the likes of Swanseee and Watford are in the market for 40/50m players while we’re still scratching around in poundland. I’m not saying bargains aren’t there but if we do achieve promotion will the finance be in place to compete or will we be left behind again. Randy Lerner really was a plank and despite what he said, i think he stitched us up.

  144. Trinity

    Great to see the Doc reassuring the fans given all the media BS.
    If McCormack comes in and Ayew stays, the goals should be there. Still a lot of restructuring needed.
    I wonder if Crew Complacency will get a run against Nantes. Still think Gabby and his mates should go. He shouldn’t get paid ££££££ just to go and lose weight at the gym and then post pictures of himself. How much would it cost to get him off the books?

  145. steamer

    Agree mate, pure poison who took the p for years, i bet when he leaves he concocts some story that he gave his best and the various managers didn’t use him correctly,

  147. steamer

    I read an article yesterday about Owen Smith who’s very appropriate nickname is apparently ‘oily’
    he hasn’t a socialist bone in his body, he voted for trident, abstained on austerity and lobbied for privatisation of the NHS while working for Pfizer one of the companies he advocated taking it over. This animal is pure filth the usual right wing Blairite scum planted at top level in the LP to ensure that the elite cream off the millions that would make a difference to ordinary families. Hopefully Jezza will boot the bastards, cleanse the party and make it what it was intended.
    The MP, Eagle, who complained about her office window being broken by Corbinistas has been proved a liar, both by the window incident and also by the police who she accused of advising her to cancel her surgeries, they didn’t.
    People may laugh at Len McCluskey’s accusations about mi5’s interference but this is the organisation that not only accused Harold Wilson of being a Soviet spy, they were preparing a coup to overthrow an elected government.

  148. steamer

    So now the Jeermans want to turn the Champions Lge into an invitation only for the big nations. These are the same people who buggered it up by letting non-champions in it and destroying the UEFA and CW Cups, why don’t they just leave everything alone ? look what a mess the 24 team Euro Champs were because Platini wanted to make his mark. Jeermany is a one club league anyway and that doesn’t actually win the CL too often.

  149. John Lerwill

    Steamer,

    I am utterly lost why they think Smith is a viable contender.

    As I said in my article, if just one of the more well-known names had stood they might have stood a chance, but I can’t believe that Smith will do anything for their credibility.

    But those bigger names are clearly chicken.

  151. steamer

    I agree John, you’d have thought that however useless she’s been for Labour that Harriet Harman would have had the nerve to stand, her equally useless knob of a husband Jack Dromey was GIVEN the safe seat of Erdington for his services to the party right wing so she understands the machiavellian methods of the NEC. When you look at the insults and character assassination that Jezza has put up with you have to admire the bare faced nerve of these peasants to accuse him of underhand tactics. When you look at how Stalin wiped out the left wing of the Bolsheviks you wonder if thats the next step, historically the left have been slaughtered for no other reason than they oppose injustice, this is just a less severe version, its what happens when Jezza and Dennis have gone that scares me.

  152. steamer

    When you look at the recent intake its quite scary, we actually have a convicted Grade A drugs dealer as an MP, plus the offspring of Kinnock and all the evidence points to similar traits as his grubby parents, Hilary Benn must have been Dennis Thatchers bastard offspring because he certainly ‘aint got a single iota of his dads integrity. Blairs kid although associating with the Republican Party has decided on the honourable career of a football agent, a spiv like his old man and obviously the army didn’t appeal, wonder why, he’d have had plenty of work. Who else ? Oh Prescott, no problems there, have the kid adopted ’cause he got in the way of the social climbing. Rant over for today, plenty more though for another day.

  155. John Lerwill

    Steamer,

    Generally agreed, but Harriett Harman has constantly said she’s not interested in the leadership.

    No, I was thinking of Tristram Hunt, Yvette Cooper or the Kinnock offspring as being the most likely and acceptable candidates to the PLP, but they’ve clearly gone for Smith because he’s supposed to be closer (ahem) to the left. *Somehow* they think he has more chance of pulling the left-wing vote.

  156. steamer

    Correct again John, i notice that Burnham has modified his criticism of JC probably in the hope that he succeeds a failure in the next GE. As i said earlier i have no hope for the LP after Jezza and Dennis have gone.

  165. Trinity

    Aye. It was a bit of a snooze, Vertout showed why it’s best he goes. At least Villa won.
    Good to see Amavi is staying.
    I see Gabby has a strain. He’ll be a sick bay ranger if he stays. Can’t go on with all these strains year-in-year-out. Most professional footballers reckon they play through the season with strains and niggles. Perhaps, he should go back to school and learn to be a PE teacher.
    Green seems to be coming along. If McCormack is signed, he together with Ayew, Gestede and youth players should be able to do the job striker wise.

  166. steamer

    Can’t see us being relegated this season.
    Flabby is coming the old soldier, it was his back last season, probably lack of a spine, and it’ll be something different every week until he gets his pay off and then he’ll be fit every week for Redditch United or whoever.

  168. steamer

    JL,
    Stumbled on this yesterday, apart from showing the Straw family in their true colours it also seems that the Cox family were not quite as clean as people were led to believe.
    The letters are mainly amusing but obviously written by educated folk, i enjoyed reading it.
    Strangely enough i opened an old email yesterday from Will Straw asking for support for the remain campaign. The entire family are vermin, always loathed JS looks what he is, slime.

  170. steamers75

    Steamer turn your bloody phone on . Been trying to whatsap you. Are the cats dead .met bloke here who lived round the corner from me in small heath. He became a baggies fan . Speak soon . Bloody 39 here . Jbs landed we got in at 6am this morning hes a bad influence on . Loads of villans here . All the best All.
    JENNY XXXXXXXXXXXXX

  172. Heroes-and-Villans

    The good dr is in India announcing a partnership deal for villa to work with the government and schools in India and officaly part of the curriculam in there schools.

    That sounds like a big deal considering the size of india. and Australia next!
    Sunderalnd to but micah for 5mill 🙂

  175. steamer

    Never been a fan of Joe Bennett but fair do’s to the lad for his determination to make it at VP.

    Seems like Tone has his finger on the pulse at VP (unlike Fox), he’s sorting out the crepe rather than extending contracts, cheerio Flabs, Richards, Lescott +1. Just because we’re not spending mega millions doesn’t mean to say the club isn’t going in the right direction, we have a lot of talent on and off the pitch. Tone seems to building a very competent playing admin, something we’ve lacked for years.

  176. Heroes-and-Villans

    Steamer

    Don’t dismiss keith wynass role either. Very savy with contracts and buying and selling. Ran a tight productive ship at everton. Playing hardball with celtic over Sinclair fee is typical of him.

    He was the first chairman I believe at Aberdeen to implement permance related pay in players contracts. He wont be a pushover at the negotiating table that’s for sure.

  177. Heroes-and-Villans

    with amavi staying (hopefully) we have 3 lb. Cissoko to go?

    Its been ignored with the desperation of signing a striker but sorting out the right hand side of the pitch is just as important imo….HUTTON AND BACUNA!! Stupid the transfer window stays open 4 weeks after the season gets going, should be all done week before ko.

    Not very patient as we want lots of movement in and out but all clubs quite so far. seems to be the way to wait till week or to till window shuts to do business.

  178. Heroes-and-Villans

    guzan, Sinclair, lescott, Richards, gabby should be 1st out the door.

    2nd phase of clearing out should then be cissokho, sanchez, hutton, Clarke, westy.

    Maybe kozac too but I like him, could do ok in champ but will have gestede I suppose.

  180. James Gill

    andrew
    some good posts
    and yes we need to shift players out if only to clear the air,does the emergency window still be their for championship ,maybe plenty clubs looking to loan out players then ,or sign them,
    as far as i see rdm signed 3 of 5/6 players remi identified last winter,even sherwood wanted a keeper. now if we hold on to foreign signings get traore fit,rudi scored in this division before so i don t point spending 6/8 million on one season wonder at bristol city,we need to see what rdm and clark can do with squad
    gk gollina have to see him play has to be improvemen
    rb desperately need one
    lb sissko will do to amavi is fit takes a while to get over his injury
    cb elphick same as keeper
    cb okore/clark would like to see a mellborg type of player come in
    wm grealish show us why you can be hero
    cm gana needs to improve
    cm tshib like other new players
    wm traore providing gets and stays fit
    str ayew
    str defintly a must
    subs
    kozak rudi vertout young lads
    so we are a bit light me thinks but no need to go mad spending shift out
    guzan hutton lescott richards baker bacuna westwood sinclair sanchez gabby big list major work need a harry rednap for a week or two put him on good bonus

  181. steamer

    good point about wyness, much needed.
    kojak is an international with a half decent team so he should fill his boots in this league.
    read somewhere that tish is a box to box player, dunno.
    we do seem light on someone feeding off the target man, ayew, to me, is an inside forward, not a chaser.
    greene seems to have made an impression.
    i think sinclair will rip up the jocks at celtic, i also think he’s capable of being very effective in the championship, however, he’s a pathetic chicken hearted twat who can’t be bovvered to get a sweat on, i don’t want him anywhere near vp, shame because he has a bit of talent.

  182. runtings

    Following on from the last two posts i think the main problem for our attack is that we a whole bunch of holding midfieelders None of which can see a forward pass – run with the ball or beat a Man —- this ia what has made us like a dog wirh three blunt teeth

  183. B62 Villa

    So with less than 2 weeks to go until we kick off at Sheff weds, the squad and in particular the starting 11 looks absolutely nowhere ready and unlikely to worry the top half of the division. Why we have been made one of the favourites by the bookies, I have no idea. We finished miles behind Norwich and Newcastle last season both of whom have strengthened( Norwich look like they are buying McCormack) whilst we have bought 2 potentially good players unproven at this levelled a central defender who looks good to start. This isn’t so much an overhaul as a bit of tinkering, which would be fine if what we had were good enough and we had done well to keep them, but frankly we have the opposite . Richards maybe leaving for £5m and Guzan on a free, a couple more should be on the way out also( not enough of them for me), whilst we are being linked with shite like Craig bluenose cunt Gardner ( his brother is better and deserves a chance) and seem to be missing out on the likes of McCormack and Kodija despite have fuck all up front bar Ayew( who may still leave). We are overloaded with bang average dross in every position, especially midfield where we are crying out for quality and creativity. Adama is lame and I doubt will play this season( I heard he is another 12 months away from full fitness as he has spent all his time pumping iron and bodybuilding rather than getting match fit, over the years and is completely the wrong body shape for a footballer, he also tires after 20-30mins) meaning we also lack width. I get we may need a clear out but a striker, a FB and some creativity is a must or we can write this season off and will be also rans , by the time the window closes we could be 10-15 pts off contention, we aren’t good enough to give that sort of head start. We have to start well and kick on or we could see a repeat of last season, where it went from bad to worse on a continual downwards spiral. To add salt into the wounds it seems like Dalian Wanda are buying Albion having looked at us, because RL is a shite business man. Wolves also have a new Chinese owner with considerable more £££££ than us, so we need to get a move on or end up like the vermin.

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