That was quite a ride, wasn’t it? The European Super League’s short, abominable, and controversial life lasted about 48 hours. It ended in an ignominious and rather churlish fashion in the face of widespread outrage, condemnation, and fan unity. Naturally, of course, an undermanned Villa will host one of the more tepid traitors, the Sky Blue Manchester Team. Is there enough pride and fight to get a result?
Following a late, three-goal outburst against a fragile Fulham to get their second win without Jack, Villa will go without him once again today. Trouble is, Liverpool are a slight step up in quality.
One of the criticisms in Jack’s absence is along the lines of “Villa don’t have much to show for £250 million.” Which is a tad unfair, I think. We are still sitting 10th with just 10 to play. So, once again, a little perspective on where that money went, and why, to me, it’s nothing like what it seems.
Recriminations are flying: Jack’s absence has obviously been a big blow, but Villa have not actually lost that much ground, in the end. Hasn’t been brilliant, but everyone should know this is not yet a team we can expect to soar in his absence.
It’s Friday, there’s football, and still no Jack Grealish. Does it matter against Newcastle? Who knows. But the barcodes are starting to get nervy, Steve Bruce is in the cross-hairs again, and Villa aren’t the same without their best player. However, they should be getting at least a little bit used to not having him.
