So, do Villa continue their torrid run of home form, or do Newcastle end their away woes? Anyone’s guess really, but Villa history will tell us to be very nervy. And of course, it’s a very big three points.
This break thing has been a bit weird. No football, more injury setbacks. And now it’s down to London and Stamford Bridge to play a 4th-round FA Cup tie for the first time in ages. Probably not the worst thing, in the end, even if Unai has made it clear it’s not Villa’s top priority. […]
Here we are traveling to the Riverside to take on Middlesboro and try to avoid a slightly embarrassing record of FA Cup exits. I’d think that in itself would spur Emery on. But obviously, how seriously Villa take the competition has to be viewed in a larger context.
First off, hope everyone had a good Christmas. I might have overindulged in some of the revelry, but what can you do. A hangover was the perfect sedative for watching us blow a 2-0 lead at Old Trafford.
It’s City, finally, and a funny time to be playing them given their recent form and the 3-3 draw with Spurs. They’re not at their best and they need a win, never mind the three points.
For Villa, it’s inevitably going to be seen as a referendum on both our aspirations and quality. Anytime you’re an outsider dancing around the top 4, well, there are going to be questions until you notch a signal victory. Is tonight the night?