While some think it was time and some don’t, there’s been a near unanimous outpouring of affection, respect, admiration, and gratitude for Dean Smith in the wake of his sudden departure from the club he loved. Not a common thing. It’s right and good to see.
But what comes next is probably a bigger call than hiring Smith in the first place.
What can I say about 2020? Thank you again, Dean. Thank you Villa. And thank you to all who read and contribute. Oh, and Happy New Year to you all.
Is £100 million fair compensation for Jack’s services? If it is, then it’s time for Edens and Sawiris to cash in. Grealish isn’t ever going to be worth much more than he is right now.
The League Cup starts up and poses a familiar test for Villa of late—that of focusing on the league at the expense of all other distractions. Once we’re back to mid-table in the Premier League, Villa can start taking cups seriously again, but not before. Unless of course we find the youngsters carrying us to an advanced stage.
After a dizzying summer, all of a sudden Villa’s first match is upon us. And it seems almost like an afterthought, even thought it’s hugely important for any number of reasons. This is why a traditional season preview just hasn’t been working for me right now. So here’s the crap version.
