If things go the way the bookmakers think they are going to go today, as in the two teams below us win, we will go into our match against West Ham on Sunday in eighth place in the league. That won't be nice.

I don't remember the last time were eighth and actually I fancy that one of them won't win today and worst case scenario for us is we'd start tomorrow in seventh. Best case would be they both lose and nothing changes and Spurs also lose, but I might as well just ask for the lottery numbers. Either way, for one team anyway, we know it is temporary.

Reverse Fixture

We lost 2-1 at West Ham back in November and at the time, West Ham were next to bottom of the table and were the worst performing home team in the league. All we got from our players was lots of hard work and average football. We hope for more tomorrow.

But some things haven't changed. We will still get lots of hard work tomorrow and West Ham, while sitting fourth from bottom are on the same points as Hull, who are next to bottom, so to some extent, nothing really seems to have kicked on for them.

West Ham also don't have a very good record away. They have only won once, on the opening day of the season, at Wolves and throughout their travels have let in 17 goals only scoring 10. I say only, but that is, on average, a goal a game so they are a threat and West Ham shouldn't be taken lightly, as we will all remember from November.

Early Team News

Yes, every game in the Premier League is going to be tough, but after the performance in midweek, I think this match would be a great time to start with Albrighton on the right or Delfouneso up front, to give Webcam or Gabby a little extra break. I know it won't happen but I just think it would be a good opportunity.

I think the only changes we will see are Friedel in for Guzan and Luke Young coming in for either Collins or Cuellar. I think it should be Collins that gives way, but I have a feeling O'Neill will pick Cuellar and I think it will be a little unfair, but what do we know?

Prediction

Regardless of what team O'Neill puts out, I fancy we will win, but I think I said that last time and look what happened. West Ham out passed us and we got quite lucky with our goal, but it is different now. We have Downing in the team and Milner is in the middle and we look better. We may also be quite desperate for the points if things do go the way of the bookmaker.

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Comments (147)add comment

Andy Mills said:

millsy1710
...
Isn't Gabby suspended for the match anyway? If so, he may well start Delfouneso and Carew.
3-1 win!
Comment 1, made on January 16, 2010 at 8.14 am

James Clift said:

Jimbo Daventry Villa
...
Being eighth tonight wouldn't be nice at all. I don't think we can rule out 4th spot yet but we need a good run starting tomorrow.
Comment 2, made on January 16, 2010 at 8.15 am

Darragh McGeown said:

RockSteady
...
Here comes the cliché - It's a must win game. smilies/smiley.gif

No seriously - we need to win this game and I will be very disappointed if we leave with anything less than 3 pts. I think we'll just edge past them (2-1).
Comment 3, made on January 16, 2010 at 8.15 am

neil bangor said:

0
...
Last on prev post at 2.07 smilies/smiley.gif
You Villa boys are having a lie in.
Team should change to make sure most/all are fit for wednesday.
Friedel still needs to impart knowledge to Guzan,he is a little raw. I wouldn't like to be taking a penalty against him smilies/smiley.gif
If we do win the cup, it's tough on Friedel,but, there you go.
I will watch at home tomorrow with Ben.
3-0 win. They will not score. Milner hat trick smilies/smiley.gif
COYL
Comment 4, made on January 16, 2010 at 8.22 am

John Edwards said:

The French Connection
...
As RockSteady says it's a must win.

I think Collins will be rested simply because he will struggle to play 3 games in a week and is needed for the second leg, to combat Blackburn's height.

Comment 5, made on January 16, 2010 at 8.47 am

John Edwards said:

The French Connection
...
Most people on here rate Petrov but tell me, how many times during a match does he actually pass the ball forward?
Comment 6, made on January 16, 2010 at 8.52 am

Steve Oldaker said:

Steveo
...
100% cuellar to start collins on the bench, is gabby suspended ? if so the fonz and carew up front and yes maybe we should start with albrighton, i think i actually agree with damian for once what a refreshing cahnge !
Comment 7, made on January 16, 2010 at 8.59 am

Steve Oldaker said:

Steveo
...
er petrov can only pass the ball forward if anyone actually demands it, usually he sees arses running away from him he is more than doing a job for us leave him alone !
Comment 8, made on January 16, 2010 at 9.11 am

John Edwards said:

The French Connection
...
Steveo

In that case why doesn't he play it to one of those players running away from him?
Comment 9, made on January 16, 2010 at 9.21 am

Steve Oldaker said:

Steveo
...
you play balls to peoples backsides ? i'm assuming you mean over the top into space is that what you mean
Comment 10, made on January 16, 2010 at 9.30 am

John Edwards said:

The French Connection
...
So you are saying that the players that are running away from him aren't looking to receive the ball or aren't looking at who has got the ball or where the ball is?
Comment 11, made on January 16, 2010 at 9.39 am

positive villan said:

0
...
ref; The French Connection

The problem with knocking balls into space is it usually makes it a 50/50 ball and probably favours the defence, a forward player has to turn, drop a yard or two and show he wants to receive the ball to feet.
Comment 12, made on January 16, 2010 at 9.43 am

Damian said:

Damian
...
positive villan
also worth noting, it is the same with long ball football - it increases the chances of losing possession
Comment 13, made on January 16, 2010 at 9.45 am

Steve Oldaker said:

Steveo
...
yes granted they would like the ball but say for arguments sake gabby has sped off stan has to supplie a killer ball all the time he's not merson you know!
Comment 14, made on January 16, 2010 at 9.52 am

John Edwards said:

The French Connection
...
I am not saying play the ball long - I am saying play the ball forward. Most of Petrov's passes are either sideways or backwards so that means that either the players in front of him aren't giving him an option OR he chooses not to take it.
Comment 15, made on January 16, 2010 at 9.54 am

beh said:

0
...

Agree with your rotation idea Damien. Esp with three games
in a week.

Tight game: 2-1 the villa.

Petrov - picks the right pass 9/10 imo. Without his influence
we`d invite more pressure than we do at the moment. Even our
defence would struggle to cope. He`s not perfect but he`s easily
the best we have in that role.
Comment 16, made on January 16, 2010 at 9.56 am

Lew Chatterley's Lover said:

0
...
anyone know what strip we're playing in tomorrow, claret and blue or all white ? need to know which outfit to wear.
Comment 17, made on January 16, 2010 at 9.57 am

Damian said:

Damian
...
We are at home. We will wear claret and blue.
Comment 18, made on January 16, 2010 at 9.59 am

Steve Oldaker said:

Steveo
...
quote from petrov "It's a different position for me now. When you play further forward, you get into the box and you get into positions. It's differrent when you're a holding midfielder. You have to look after the ball a lot more and be more careful. If you go forward and lose it in the final third, you have plenty of room to recover. But the position I play now, losing the ball can be crucial."
Comment 19, made on January 16, 2010 at 10.01 am

positive villan said:

0
...
A bit of both I think French Connection
Comment 20, made on January 16, 2010 at 10.01 am

John Edwards said:

The French Connection
...
The thing is Steveo, using your example, if Gabby has sped off Heskey will probably have dropped deeper Young will be wide and Milner and Downing will be asking for the ball - watch the Blackburn game again if you dont believe me.
Comment 21, made on January 16, 2010 at 10.03 am

Steve Oldaker said:

Steveo
...
i rest my case smilies/wink.gif
Comment 22, made on January 16, 2010 at 10.03 am

Andyb said:

0
...
I see the scum's game has been postponed, so we won't be in 8th spot.
Comment 23, made on January 16, 2010 at 10.04 am

jason parkes said:

villabandit
...
sky sports says zaki having a medical at a prem club today any ideas who this is.....could he do a job for us.....hes 26 and knows where the goal is....
Comment 24, made on January 16, 2010 at 10.05 am

Steve Oldaker said:

Steveo
...
i thought he had a good game did'nt you french connection ? him milner cuellar stood out for me
Comment 25, made on January 16, 2010 at 10.07 am

John Edwards said:

The French Connection
...
Fair play Steveo.
Comment 26, made on January 16, 2010 at 10.08 am

John Edwards said:

The French Connection
...
Hull I believe villabandit
Comment 27, made on January 16, 2010 at 10.08 am

Doc said:

Pace
...
is it not stoke?
Comment 28, made on January 16, 2010 at 10.46 am

tubbydunne said:

0
...
I think we will see the same team that started at Ewood park. Carlos is going to be right back for us every time Dunne and Collins are fit, people have to accept this.

The only problem I have with this is that Carlos won't be happy playing out of position long term and if there is interest shown in him from his homeland as has been suggested this might be a factor in him leaving. This would be a catastrophe as he has been outstanding this season and is getting better and better, his attitude seems spot on and players like him don't come around too often.

It's a tough one because Collin's and Dunne are a great partnership, Carlos is too good to be left off so the manager is fitting him in at right full, its definitely not his natural position but he does a fine job there but how long will he be happy to play out of position?
Comment 29, made on January 16, 2010 at 11.17 am

Nix2 said:

0
...
When Petrov gets the ball 1 of two things happens.
1. He's tackling back so he's facing our goal, a player to his side or in front of him (defence) are looking forward, they are the best option.

2. He's shrugging off the opponents midfield and plays it into space, but a safe pass into space.

MON is building an intelligent team now, one where when a mistake is made we all see it cos we're not used to seeing mistakes.
In the Blackburn game when Cuellar went on a little run, who noticed Downing dropping in behind him covering.
Football isn't all about what you do with the ball, its about how as a team you protect the ball.
3nil villa, screamer from Young, penalty by Carew and an overhead kick by Dunne!!!
Comment 30, made on January 16, 2010 at 11.18 am

Steve Oldaker said:

Steveo
...
collins will be on the bench he was playing at ewood to combat blackburns long ball tactic
Comment 31, made on January 16, 2010 at 11.20 am

Graymo said:

0
...
What do people think about playing King Carlos at RB. I really think he should rotate Dunne/Cuellar/Collins for the Central positions but use L.Young and Beye at RB. I think it's shows great disrespect playing players out of position when you have decent players as cover. On a side note I'm also very dissapointed that Reo Coker hasn't been given more time on the pitch. MON is basiacally managing him out of the club. I think he brings much more to the table than Sidwell. Anyone else agree? if so.. why doesn't MON? doesn't hold grudges my arse.
Comment 32, made on January 16, 2010 at 11.21 am

tubbydunne said:

0
...
Sorry big Brad will come in for little Brad but the outfield starters will be the same
Comment 33, made on January 16, 2010 at 11.22 am

Andy Oliver said:

avfc_andy
...
Petrov holds everything together in our midfield. For my money he brings a calming influence to our play and reads the game better than anyone else could in that position. When he's got the ball 9/10 times you know its going to another claret and blue shirt which is more than you can say for other players who have been used in his position.

He has got an eye for a through ball as well, look at his pass to heskey against blackburn that put him through but he couldnt control it properly. Unfortunatley due to having the rest of the midfield ahead of him most of the time, like he says on the OS, he has to be more careful when in possession.
Comment 34, made on January 16, 2010 at 11.22 am

Adey Stuttard said:

1874AVFC
...
2-0 Villa, and I am a Stoke fan today smilies/wink.gif
Comment 35, made on January 16, 2010 at 11.24 am

Stan Balaban said:

0
...
No Ryan Babel in the Liverpool squad today. He's def off in Jan and for someone I think he'll be a good buy.
Comment 36, made on January 16, 2010 at 11.34 am

jc_villa said:

0
...
Graymo

I like reo a lot and think your right in that he offers more than sidwell however im glad he didnt come on against blackburn. He scares me whenever hes in our box as his tackling can be a bit rash and he does end up giving away the odd penalty.

Dunne, Fonz and Young to get goals tomorrow 3-0 to villa
Comment 37, made on January 16, 2010 at 11.37 am

Steve Oldaker said:

Steveo
...
maybe we could buy him as cover for gabby
Comment 38, made on January 16, 2010 at 11.39 am

Michael Statham said:

boumavilla
...
villa to win 1-0
gonna be tight
espec as we dont score too many goals but we never seem to concede any
UTV smilies/smiley.gifsmilies/wink.gifsmilies/cheesy.gifsmilies/grin.gifsmilies/tongue.gif
Comment 39, made on January 16, 2010 at 11.40 am

Darren said:

villaparkes
...
Playing Carlos at RB away from home in semi-final against a long ball team was an understandable and conservative tactic by MON. If he plays him there again tomorrow against a poor WH side would be a grossly negative move. Luke Young is very influencial player in the opponents half, Carlos going forward is poor because that is not his strength, he doesn't support his winger and like Luke can and WH are not really a physical side. Expect Collins to drop to the bench and Luke Young to come back in. 3-0 Villa no problem. Hope Stoke stuff Pool.UTVsmilies/kiss.gif
Comment 40, made on January 16, 2010 at 11.41 am

Stan Balaban said:

0
...
maybe we could buy him as cover for gabby


Steveo - I think he'd be a good buy. Apparently he's preferred position is as a striker anyway so would be perfect in terms of what we need. Showtime here in Dubai have just said he's left a message on Twitter about not being in the squad today so def not happy.
Maybe he could have an Henry-like transformation moving from the flanks to out and out striker. No slouch, tall, good skill just needs MON's confidence boost. Hmmmmmmm, interesting!
Comment 41, made on January 16, 2010 at 11.53 am

Stan Balaban said:

0
...
Where's Chiefy? Just seen that Reina is wearing a SNOOD today. Is this a Chiefy-supplied self-destructing SNOOD designed to further the Liverpool collapse from within? smilies/grin.gif
Comment 42, made on January 16, 2010 at 11.55 am

Stan Balaban said:

0
...
Dunne, Fonz and Young to get goals tomorrow 3-0 to villa


Love it, but just to confirm that Gabby is not suspended tomorrow so will more than likely play the 90 mins.
Comment 43, made on January 16, 2010 at 11.58 am

Andi said:

Chiefy
...
is here and still alive, REINA wearing a SNOOD, my affection for the SNOOD has gone now he has ruined it for me scouse t£"t
Comment 44, made on January 16, 2010 at 12.03 pm

Andi said:

Chiefy
...
is this a Chiefy-supplied self-destructing SNOOD designed to further the Liverpool collapse


smilies/cheesy.gifsmilies/cheesy.gifsmilies/cheesy.gif
Comment 45, made on January 16, 2010 at 12.03 pm

Stan Balaban said:

0
...
my affection for the SNOOD has gone now he has ruined it for me scouse t£"t


He probably nicked it anyway!
Comment 46, made on January 16, 2010 at 12.04 pm

Stan Balaban said:

0
...
Steveo - the more I think about it, the more I like the idea of Babel. His confidence is shot under FSW, but how often do you get a young, skillful, international striker that would be available in Jan and knows the EPL for around £10 million?
Comment 47, made on January 16, 2010 at 12.06 pm

Andi said:

Chiefy
...
He probably nicked it anyway!


smilies/cheesy.gifsmilies/cheesy.gif

Have you robbed your SNOOD as well have you robbed your SNOOD
Comment 48, made on January 16, 2010 at 12.08 pm

Stan Balaban said:

0
...
Have you robbed your SNOOD as well have you robbed your SNOOD
smilies/cheesy.gifsmilies/cheesy.gif

Actually more likely he traded it for some hubcaps, 10 Sovereign and a copy of Razzle (well used) smilies/shocked.gif
Comment 49, made on January 16, 2010 at 12.12 pm

John Jordan said:

the pensioner
...
Zaki is going to Hull City!
Comment 50, made on January 16, 2010 at 12.42 pm

Cian Donaghy said:

Celtic_Villan
...
french connection

roy keane was one of the most effection footballers in the world for 5 or 6 years. you cant score without the ball. and your opposition cant score if you dont have it.

said that, petrov's position in the villa line up is no longer just a formality in my opinion.

id say dunne and milner are the first two namesand the team sheet.
now id say at the moment gabby, petrov and ashley young are, but i feel mon may be rethinking that...
Comment 51, made on January 16, 2010 at 12.45 pm

whitey09 said:

0
...
silly saying this,and i know its nowhere near true,but a freind has just mentioned 2 me that villa are talking with an agent of a german player in the hope of cuming here jan,like i sed prob bullshit but not got a lot else 2 say lol,should win 2moz be close but i fancy us 2-0 in the end
Comment 52, made on January 16, 2010 at 12.55 pm

Stan Balaban said:

0
...
Liverpoo have scored!! smilies/angry.gif
Comment 53, made on January 16, 2010 at 1.03 pm

Adey Stuttard said:

1874AVFC
...
Stoke equaliser, get in!
Comment 54, made on January 16, 2010 at 1.36 pm

Stan Balaban said:

0
...
Get in Stoke!!!! smilies/grin.gif
Comment 55, made on January 16, 2010 at 1.36 pm

mjasghar said:

0
...
phew stoke equalised last min !!!!
Haha Mark Lawrenson up yours
eeek almost winner for Stoke
Comment 56, made on January 16, 2010 at 1.37 pm

Damian said:

Damian
...
5 more minutes .. i'd love it if this was a draw. just love it or even stoke winning smilies/wink.gif
Comment 57, made on January 16, 2010 at 1.37 pm

Adey Stuttard said:

1874AVFC
...
Mark Lawrenson actualy predicted a 2-1 Stoke win:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/h...458860.stm
Comment 58, made on January 16, 2010 at 1.42 pm

heskeyshead said:

heskeyshead
...
that was brilliant! absolutely terrible game but last 10 minutes were great. I love it how they appealed offside at the goal when there was a man on the line. haha

wasn't a bad display from liverpool though, they defended well.
Comment 59, made on January 16, 2010 at 1.53 pm

Stan Balaban said:

0
...
Come on Burnley, Sunderland and Hull!! You can do it!
Comment 60, made on January 16, 2010 at 1.54 pm

Rattus NorVillicus said:

Pancho Villan
...
Well suck my snood. Liverpool at it again. smilies/cheesy.gif

And if we think the Villa don't play pretty football, that was like a third division match.
Comment 61, made on January 16, 2010 at 1.59 pm

Stan Balaban said:

0
...
SNOOD watch from the 3pm games - spotted so far : Corluka at Spurs.

Man U v Burnley could easily be 0-2 after 7 mins!
Comment 62, made on January 16, 2010 at 2.09 pm

Stan Balaban said:

0
...
An extract from Milan Mandaric's autobiography - "Me and 'Arry, My Life with Melty Face"
When 'Arry came to Pompey he tried several different combinations. He tried 5-3-2, 4-5-1, 4-4-2, but when the safe wouldn't open he knew he was off to Spurs


smilies/grin.gif
Comment 63, made on January 16, 2010 at 2.39 pm

david gabbey said:

bfastvilla
...
what about the jones rumour. It was in the sun and has been mentioned on five live today so it may have some truth. Would jones be a 20 goal a year striker for us.

With our quality of supply into the box a good striker (poacher) may have a field day

what do you all think?
Comment 64, made on January 16, 2010 at 3.08 pm

woody said:

0
...
There's gotta be a way to contact martin o'neill and tell him what the fans think off whats happening at the club and the transfer market!!!

I think everyone can see that we need something, something new to inspire the team. Were averaging about 1 to 2 goals a game and to fight for a top five spot and or the league cup we need to someone up front to keep banging in those goals and its coming up to the point now were we loose momentum. We need to make someone like Kenwyne Jones our priority. I'd prefer Darren Bent as i've said all along as he'll be trying to on the plane to south africa. We could help him get there and by doing so get villa higher up in the table and even Agbonlahor on the plane aswell.

So anyone with any suggestions to contact the club????
Comment 65, made on January 16, 2010 at 3.10 pm

paul mclafferty said:

holteend paul
...
woody?
i think your not right in the head, martin o'neill is the manager not some weirdo trying to tell him how to do his job!!!!
Comment 66, made on January 16, 2010 at 3.21 pm

woody said:

0
...
funnily enough I don't care what you think
yeh that was my opinion if you don't agree just say
and I wasn't tryin to tell him what to do!
Comment 67, made on January 16, 2010 at 3.42 pm

Chris Harper said:

Villa_Chris
...
I think you should write a book Cheify...
'The Marvalous Adventures of Chiefy and the Snood'

Chiefy: "Gee,Snood,What do you want to do tonight?"
Snood: "The same thing we do every night, Chiefy—try to take over the world!"

smilies/cheesy.gif
Comment 68, made on January 16, 2010 at 3.45 pm

Stan Balaban said:

0
...
Woody I'm all for the enthusiasm mate but there's only one opinion that matters. I think it's an area he'll be looking at, because if we can see it then MON certainly can. As can his coaching staff. And the players. And the people working at the club.....

I've mentioned that I think Ryan Babel could do the job for us but that's just my opinion, but thankfully no one's put me in charge of AVFC cos compared to MON, I don't know jack shit!
Comment 69, made on January 16, 2010 at 3.51 pm

Damian said:

Damian
...
woody
the club read this website, as well as e few other websites.

i sometimes often think that JPA is employed by the club because he is so positive all the time

but - saying all that - o'neill knows what is needed. the person you want to be writing to is randy lerner
Comment 70, made on January 16, 2010 at 3.51 pm

Stan Balaban said:

0
...
6 mins of injury time at Spurs smilies/shocked.gif Myhill has been awesome but Robbie Keane was toilet today.

Sunderland have been well and truly tonked! Fingers crossed for an Everton win later!
Comment 71, made on January 16, 2010 at 3.54 pm

Damian said:

Damian
...
Stan Balaban

what makes you think you know jack shit; is it because you were not a professional footballer or something else?

Comment 72, made on January 16, 2010 at 3.55 pm

Stan Balaban said:

0
...
Damian - I probably didn't phrase it correctly to explain exactly what I meant. Whilst I think that most fans on here have a good idea about the strengths and weaknesses of our beloved team, I meant that we (me) know very little about signing a player compared to MON.
All I get to see is what a player's like on the pitch, but MON will know exactly what criteria he judges a player on before they have the privilege of being chosen to play for Aston Villa.
All my opinion is based upon is that 'so-and-so keeps bangin' them in, he'll do well etc....' (if all that makes sense)
Comment 73, made on January 16, 2010 at 4.04 pm

Chris Harper said:

Villa_Chris
...
On the Milner debate...

I also think its ludicrous that people think they noticed this before MON did. I think his coaching staff and himself know all the minute details that we wouldn't even consider to think about with players. Afterall, it is their proffession, and they are top of the game.
Comment 74, made on January 16, 2010 at 4.05 pm

Rios.Jockstrap said:

0
...
A must-win game tomorrow and a very hard and important game in midweek. So what does Martin do concerning the team selection?

I think he will decide that Blackburn will pose the bigger threat and harder opposition, and will therefore pick tomorrows team with that in mind.

Not sure if Gabby is suspended or not, but he ran himself into the ground yet again on thursday, so will proberly be rested. I think the Fonz will come in with big John up front. Not sure about Heskies fitness and i just dont rate him. Martin does however, and he seems to rate him as a key player, so expect him rested or on the Bench to cover Carews inevitable burn out mid way through the second half!

I can also see Downing being rested with Milner going back on the right, and Ashley left.

I think Delph will figure from the start next to Stan, especially after the gaffers glowing praise of him following our victory over Blackburn in the FA Cup.

Collins selection thursday was purely to safeguard against Blackburns hoof ball tactics, so expect Luke Young back in tomorrow with Cuellar taking up his normal central berth.

Lastly its big Brad for little Brad.

Villa 3-1smilies/cool.gif
Comment 75, made on January 16, 2010 at 4.10 pm

Stan Balaban said:

0
...
No SNOOD on Tevez tonight. Think Reina nicked it! smilies/shocked.gif
Comment 76, made on January 16, 2010 at 4.32 pm

heskeyshead said:

heskeyshead
...
--------------------Friedel------------------

-L.Young------Cuellar-------Dunne-------Warnock


Downing------Reo-Coker-----Delph-------A.Young


-------------Carew--------Delfuneso-----------
Comment 77, made on January 16, 2010 at 4.37 pm

heskeyshead said:

heskeyshead
...
Subs - Guzan - Beye - Collins - Sidwell - Petrov - Milner - Agbonglahor
Comment 78, made on January 16, 2010 at 4.39 pm

Stan Balaban said:

0
...
Santa Cruz off injured after only 8 mins smilies/shocked.gif

Very injury prone!
Comment 79, made on January 16, 2010 at 4.50 pm

Steve Badger said:

Badger
...
i sometimes often think that JPA is employed by the club because he is so positive all the time

You're such a cynic Damian.
the person you want to be writing to is randy lerner

And there you go again, hinting that Lerner won't open his purse.
Why do you do this?
There has been no hint whatsoever that he hasn't provided funds when required, imo.
Comment 80, made on January 16, 2010 at 4.53 pm

heskeyshead said:

heskeyshead
...
whats happened to gareth barry? poor in possesion but he is creating a nuisance in the midfield
Comment 81, made on January 16, 2010 at 4.59 pm

heskeyshead said:

heskeyshead
...
Everton playing really really well. great play. they pass the ball better than we do.
Comment 82, made on January 16, 2010 at 5.05 pm

Andi said:

Chiefy
...
I think you should write a book Cheify...
'The Marvalous Adventures of Chiefy and the Snood'

Chiefy: "Gee,Snood,What do you want to do tonight?"
Snood: "The same thing we do every night, Chiefy—try to take over the world!"


love it smilies/cheesy.gif
Comment 83, made on January 16, 2010 at 5.07 pm

Lew Chatterley's Lover said:

0
...
after last years kit fiasco I understand that West Hamm will be wearing pink and yellow stripes, purple shorts, and orange socks, I think it's based on a Cov City kit from the 80's.

Tomorrows game should also bring back great memories for Emule who's fantastic scoring run at Villa Park began in this fixture last year, he loves that Holte End net !
Comment 84, made on January 16, 2010 at 5.07 pm

woody said:

0
...
tevez injured maybesmilies/smiley.gif
Comment 85, made on January 16, 2010 at 5.08 pm

Stan Balaban said:

0
...
whats happened to gareth barry? poor in possesion but he is creating a nuisance in the midfield


Agreed mate, Fellaini and Pienaar are bossing the midfield at the mo.

I said in a previous post that Man City had benefited from the new manager syndrome aswell as a kind run of fixture that Hughes would also of probably won. Everton are proving to be a good test for them today.
Comment 86, made on January 16, 2010 at 5.09 pm

heskeyshead said:

heskeyshead
...
F&CKING BRILLIANT FREE KICK!!!!!!! MAN SH*TTY ARE WOBBLING!!!!

WHO ARE YA WHO ARE YA WHO ARE YA!
Comment 87, made on January 16, 2010 at 5.11 pm

Stan Balaban said:

0
...
A SNOODless Tevez may be going off injured soon and City have just gone 1-0 down!!

This is the power of Snood!!smilies/wink.gif
Comment 88, made on January 16, 2010 at 5.12 pm

woody said:

0
...
does anyone know is tevez injured? is he off?
Comment 89, made on January 16, 2010 at 5.18 pm

dominic elmer said:

just-dom
...
Come on Everton!! Barry is having a mare. what's happened to him?
Comment 90, made on January 16, 2010 at 5.21 pm

whitey09 said:

0
...
2-0 everton come on the blue scouse,love it
Comment 91, made on January 16, 2010 at 5.23 pm

George Templeton said:

George Templeton
...
Good day to be an Aston Villa fan so far smilies/grin.gif
Comment 92, made on January 16, 2010 at 5.23 pm

whitey09 said:

0
...
george
everyday is gud 2 b a villa fan mate everyday!!!!!
Comment 93, made on January 16, 2010 at 5.25 pm

Rios.Jockstrap said:

0
...
F&CKING BRILLIANT FREE KICK!!!!!!! MAN SH*TTY ARE WOBBLING!!!!

WHO ARE YA WHO ARE YA WHO ARE YA!



It seems the gods are doing their best for us to snatch that 4th place this season. We really do have a chance, and i dont think we will get a better chance..

Tevez carrying an Hamstring aswell. If he goes down Man Sheiky are fooked!
Comment 94, made on January 16, 2010 at 5.26 pm

fastbackace said:

fastbackace
...
now im worried about everton, they always finish the end of the season well.
but with livershit tieing, tott tie, and man c losing, y cant we have a run for 4th?

everyone says we can only win the carling cup, but its really only 2 more game!

WE WANT 4th.

WE WANT MORE!
UTV
Comment 95, made on January 16, 2010 at 5.27 pm

whitey09 said:

0
...
fastbackace
anything is possible but the cup is realistic but wat the hell lets av it allsmilies/cheesy.gif
Comment 96, made on January 16, 2010 at 5.29 pm

George Templeton said:

George Templeton
...
What do people think about playing King Carlos at RB. I really think he should rotate Dunne/Cuellar/Collins for the Central positions but use L.Young and Beye at RB. I think it's shows great disrespect playing players out of position when you have decent players as cover.


Graymo I agree with you 100 percent. The King should be playing in the middle whenever he is on the pitch! Rotating is fine with me, although MON hasn't tried a Collins-Cuellar partnership yet.
Comment 97, made on January 16, 2010 at 5.33 pm

Stan Balaban said:

0
...
Fellaini's looking pretty damn good! Completely overshadowed Barry.

We'll see a truer test of Mancini by how Man City come out in the second half.
Comment 98, made on January 16, 2010 at 5.34 pm

fastbackace said:

fastbackace
...
i really like peinarr
Comment 99, made on January 16, 2010 at 5.40 pm

whitey09 said:

0
...
i really like cahil lol
Comment 100, made on January 16, 2010 at 5.43 pm

Stan Balaban said:

0
...
i really like peinarr


I didn't know you swung that way??? smilies/shocked.gifsmilies/shocked.gifsmilies/shocked.gifsmilies/grin.gif
Comment 101, made on January 16, 2010 at 5.44 pm

fastbackace said:

fastbackace
...
as long as im the big spoon. smilies/cool.gif
Comment 102, made on January 16, 2010 at 5.50 pm

stephen said:

Chater1703
...
whatever happened to steven the toffee havent heard from him on here for ages
Comment 103, made on January 16, 2010 at 5.51 pm

Stan Balaban said:

0
...
as long as im the big spoon.


Haha, I don't think I'll ever be too old to enjoy a Pienaar sounding like penis gag!
Comment 104, made on January 16, 2010 at 5.52 pm

fastbackace said:

fastbackace
...
wow stan... to much... to much.
Comment 105, made on January 16, 2010 at 5.56 pm

Alex Glynn said:

glynnder
...
just-dom. He's a tosser, that's what's happened.
Oh and lets have everton getting a couple more - it'd be nice to start the match in 5th ;]
Comment 106, made on January 16, 2010 at 5.57 pm

Darren said:

villaparkes
...
'We got Robhino, we got Robhino' sang the Manc fools, subbed the sub, what a farce smilies/grin.gifsmilies/grin.gifsmilies/grin.gif
Comment 107, made on January 16, 2010 at 6.03 pm

Chris Platt said:

clevelandvillian
...
Watching the Man Shitty game. Barry has been very very poor.

The first game against half decent opposition for Mancini and the wheels come off.

Comment 108, made on January 16, 2010 at 6.06 pm

Cian Donaghy said:

Celtic_Villan
...
agreed villa_chris

it is laughable and makes you look silly damien.
and as iv said before, o neill buys footballers to play football, not for a specific position.

takes a man to admit he was wrong.
Comment 109, made on January 16, 2010 at 6.14 pm

heskeyshead said:

heskeyshead
...
barry is looking very feeble.
Comment 110, made on January 16, 2010 at 6.17 pm

Steve Badger said:

Badger
...
Fellaini is outstanding today.
Comment 111, made on January 16, 2010 at 6.23 pm

Stan Balaban said:

0
...
Fellaini is outstanding today.


Completely mugged Bellamy with that trick. Will Everton be able to hang on to him for much longer though?
Comment 112, made on January 16, 2010 at 6.25 pm

whitey09 said:

0
...
not a big fan of fellaini but he's superb 2nite
Comment 113, made on January 16, 2010 at 6.26 pm

Damian said:

Damian
...
dont forget though .. this is what moyes does pretty much every season, it's just taken him a little longer to get in to the stride this season

man city will also spend and man city will be a threat to 4th

barry - he's looked pretty much exactly as he has done for the past few seasons ...
Comment 114, made on January 16, 2010 at 6.27 pm

Proxopera said:

0
...
To anyone watching the game , whats donovan like ?
Comment 115, made on January 16, 2010 at 6.27 pm

Damian said:

Damian
...
that landan bloke? he has looked okay - nothing spectacular but solid
Comment 116, made on January 16, 2010 at 6.29 pm

Steve Badger said:

Badger
...
Or given the way this thread is going, should that be Fellatio?
Comment 117, made on January 16, 2010 at 6.29 pm

Stan Balaban said:

0
...
To anyone watching the game , whats donovan like ?


Looked very lively in the first half, tired in the second. Seems to have good pace and composure and linked with the rest of the midfield well.
Comment 118, made on January 16, 2010 at 6.30 pm

whitey09 said:

0
...
badger
smilies/cheesy.gifsmilies/cheesy.gifsmilies/cheesy.gifsmilies/cheesy.gif
Comment 119, made on January 16, 2010 at 6.31 pm

Chris Platt said:

clevelandvillian
...
Could Barry's England place be slip slip slipping away?smilies/cheesy.gif
Comment 120, made on January 16, 2010 at 6.31 pm

Proxopera said:

0
...
Could be a worry for you English boys , alot of your midfield players are starting to wobble a bit . Get it sorted!
Comment 121, made on January 16, 2010 at 6.34 pm

Sean said:

Fitzy_7
...
Results have gone our way again

Lets take advantage of it now!!
Comment 122, made on January 16, 2010 at 6.38 pm

Chris Platt said:

clevelandvillian
...
Anyone else heard the rumor that we are talking to Lukas Podolski's agent?
Comment 123, made on January 16, 2010 at 6.40 pm

Rios.Jockstrap said:

0
...
that landan bloke? he has looked okay - nothing spectacular but solid



I though he was american?
Comment 124, made on January 16, 2010 at 6.43 pm

Rios.Jockstrap said:

0
...
Anyone else heard the rumor that we are talking to Lukas Podolski's agent?



I guess we talk to loads of agents everyday, and im sure Podolski's has several other clients.

If true it means nothing.

A quote by Martin in tonights mail hints that he is happy to with this squad to the end of the season.

"We will find out by the end of this month whether this squad is strong enough or not"
Comment 125, made on January 16, 2010 at 6.46 pm

adam said:

b30 villain
...
saw it this morning. i like podolski but not heard much of him lately
Comment 126, made on January 16, 2010 at 6.51 pm

pepsi head said:

0
...
damien when villa were at home to west ham last season we HAD to wear our away kitsmilies/wink.gifplus great results for the villa today.
Comment 127, made on January 16, 2010 at 6.57 pm

Paul Theiss said:

Villain-from-Texas
...
Lando looked solid, especially when consider that the right wing really isn't his position.

He'll prove to be a good loan signing for them.
Comment 128, made on January 16, 2010 at 6.59 pm

Stan Balaban said:

0
...
Anyone else see the interview with Rafa on Skyports? The interviewer kept asking him for HIS opinion on a few decisions and Rafa kept going on about 27,000 people thought this and 27,000 people thought that. Every answer was about 27,000 people. He's cracking up!

BTW Rafa, the attendance at Stoke was just over 19,000 smilies/cheesy.gif
Comment 129, made on January 16, 2010 at 7.01 pm

Paul Theiss said:

Villain-from-Texas
...
Where was that Podolski rumor?
Comment 130, made on January 16, 2010 at 7.05 pm

Nigel said:

0
...
If it's right that the club look at this site; then please buy a quality striker who will score 20 goals or more a season. Come on, just one big brave buy that will help make us real challengers instead of almost/nearly challengers. Look at the chances created against Blackburn and imagine if we a Torres/ Drogba type finisher smilies/wink.gif
Comment 131, made on January 16, 2010 at 7.07 pm

Rios.Jockstrap said:

0
...
Damian,

There is something wrong here mate. My posts dont seem to show or are slow in showing???
Comment 132, made on January 16, 2010 at 7.09 pm

Alex Glynn said:

glynnder
...
clevelandvillian
...
Anyone else heard the rumor that we are talking to Lukas Podolski's agent?


[ur]http://www.goal.com/en/news/15/germany/2010/01/13/1742422/koeln-striker-lukas-podolski-sustains-back-injury

Doubt it, we need someone to strike now - not in a few weeks time.
Comment 133, made on January 16, 2010 at 7.19 pm

Damian said:

Damian
...
pepsi head

i forgot about that .. sorry
Comment 134, made on January 16, 2010 at 7.36 pm

Proxopera said:

0
...
Dont think much of Podolski , he was dumped for the imbecilic Luca Toni at Bayern . The same Bayern would struggle to beat any of the top 7 premiership clubs .
I think theres quite a lot of underrated talent in the Belgian league and they tend to be harder bastards than their continental neighbours . Exhibit A - Fellaini
Comment 135, made on January 16, 2010 at 7.43 pm

Chrisodon said:

Chrisodon
...
I'd take Podolski in an instant, Just in the hope he could become like he used to play, The german (Tho he's Polish) Rooney he was labelled but Bayern ruined his confidence by buying Toni and keeping him on the subs bench.
Comment 136, made on January 16, 2010 at 7.45 pm

Steve Badger said:

Badger
...
So a win by two clear golas puts us back into fifth, on the same points as 4th placed Spuds.
Not too shabby Damian, eh?

Not that I'm convinced we'll get two goals smilies/cry.gif

Some good results today smilies/smiley.gif
Comment 137, made on January 16, 2010 at 8.21 pm

Steve Badger said:

Badger
...
golas?

I think I'm harping back to my youth when it was a top name smilies/cheesy.gif
Comment 138, made on January 16, 2010 at 8.22 pm

fastbackace said:

fastbackace
...
lando- very good player, very fast, would add well with the villa team, and works very hard, we shouldve grabbed him on loan.

poldolski- i cried for him to come to villa last jan. id love to see him here as mon could restore confidence and he could be that 20 goal a season with ash, gabby, dowing, and milner around him. strong kid, just like a rooney figure.
id pay 10 mil for him.

great results 2day!
Comment 139, made on January 16, 2010 at 10.06 pm

Billy.villa said:

0
...
IMO This is our best and possibly last chance to break into the elite. I think next year Citeh will be a shoe in, in the top 4. If we dont get the revenue from CL then we can't compete. If Livorpool get it then it's status quo plus Citeh...
We should splash some cash in Jan (Best out and out goal scorer we can get) and go for it.
Needs to be someone with pace and something similar to an Owen on form.
Do you reckon crater face, would take a bung to let Defoe slip away..Nah, not Onest arry...

Comment 140, made on January 16, 2010 at 10.44 pm

paul mclafferty said:

holteend paul
...
stan balaban....
the attendance at stoke today was 27247 so fsw was right!!!!
BTW rafa, the attendance at stoke was just over 19,000
smilies/cheesy.gif
Comment 141, made on January 16, 2010 at 10.46 pm

Steve Badger said:

Badger
...
Some superb news for those that can't afford to go to games;
Sir Richard Branson, whose Virgin Group holds a 6.5pc stake in Virgin Media, has said he expects the price of Sky Sports 1 to fall by 20pc.


http://www.telegraph.co.uk/fin...-war.html

Comment 142, made on January 16, 2010 at 11.04 pm

Steve Badger said:

Badger
...
And just to add;
Sporting bodies including the Premier League, the England and Wales Cricket Board and the Rugby Football Union have warned that the move may significantly affect funding provided to sports clubs up and down the country and threaten the nation's future sporting success.


Gimmee the money and f*ck the fans, in other words.
This is bullshit, imo.
Comment 143, made on January 16, 2010 at 11.14 pm

Steve Badger said:

Badger
...
I've got a right one on me now smilies/grin.gif

So this sky dominated league that has sucked in loads of foreign players suddenly cares about British kids?

Yeah right smilies/angry.gif

Money, money, money, simple as smilies/angry.gif
Comment 144, made on January 16, 2010 at 11.28 pm

bass said:

0
...
Hesky out carew in!!!!!! get shot this waste of space and get in jones from sunderland asap!!!!! if heskey is on th eplane to SA i hope he stays there!!!! villa to win 3-1 we need to improve our GD on the other teams around us too!!! up the villa
Comment 145, made on January 16, 2010 at 11.37 pm

frem said:

0
...
Read this
MARTIN O'Neill has refused to rule out splashing some cash this month – even though it’s not part of Aston Villa’s current budget.


Last month the Villa boss was adamant the only way he could boost his high-fl iers during the mid-season window was if some fringe players left.

But with his side just 90 minutes from the Carling Cup Final, and very much in the race for a top-four finish, O’Neill admits he would love to get active in the market.

That subject is certain to be on the agenda this week when owner Randy Lerner jets back after a lengthy spell at home in the States.

O’Neill said: “I understand about the need for prudence – and I believe in it. But I am a football manager. I get judged on results and not on the long term. Every single club I’ve been at, I have worked to the budgets given to me. That’s at Wycombe, Leicester and at Celtic, so I haven’t changed here."

“I’m very happy with my squad but I’m no different to anybody – I’d like it to be stronger.” Despite those comments, O’Neill insists he will never risk bankrupting a club in the search for immediate glory and success.

That’s why Villa, even though they have spent more than £100million in Lerner’s three-and-a half-year reign, remain in a healthy position on and off the pitch. Which is in stark contrast to the dire financial state many of their Premier League counterparts find themselves in.

Not least today’s opponents West Ham, seemingly on the brink of going bust for the best part of 12 months.

According to O’Neill, trouble in the boardroom inevitably leads to a downturn in form on the field. The Ulsterman added: “If you have a bit of turmoil in the background I have often felt it gives players excuses because something is not right."

“I was once a player myself and you go with any excuse – your shoes are too tight, breakfast was poor, I even blamed John Robertson for not passing to me! Having a stable owner does take one of those excuses away from you.”


Comment 146, made on January 17, 2010 at 8.09 am

McParland said:

0
...
Talk about impotance,if my wife had to suffer that sort of penatration like what the villa are showing up front she would of left me 50years ago. SHIT MON WE DESPERATLY NEED STRIKERS
Comment 147, made on January 17, 2010 at 1.22 pm

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