Summer time. Same old story. Welcome to Britain. A couple of months of patchy sunshine, ice creams and a new found appreciation of cider. It won’t last. The shite weather will soon return, the ice creams will disappear and people will realise that pear Kopparberg is actually pretty rank.

Summer brings the same old routine. World Cup years are generally my favourite. I was lucky enough to pootle round South Africa this June watching some jumpers for goalpost action. It really is the hope that kills us. Always will be. Could this year be our turn? Could it? Maybe? Surely? It’s got to be?!

Not so much. Truth is, 31 teams go home as losers from a World Cup. And yet there seems to be a state of national mourning when the inevitable happens. Wake up. Get used to it. Unless something radical changes, as England fans, we’re staring at another 50 years of hurt.

Ah inevitability. It’s fair to say there’s inevitability about the way Martin O’Neill deals in the summer transfer market. It’s pretty much August. Which means it’s pretty much the start of the Premiership. This of course means we still haven’t bought anyone.

Window Watch

At least we know not to panic this time round. We’ve been here before. We bought most of our defence at lastminute.com last season. Dunne’s transfer was so late that it wasn’t secure until September. I personally find it very irritating that we tend to deal so late. But at least we know the crack now right?

So late transfers. Tick. What’s next? Oh yeah. ‘A bigger club’ (i.e. a club with more money) targeting one of our players. Barry in 2008. Milner in 2010. Barry stayed a year extra. And in fairness got his head down and played well. Don’t be shocked if the same happens again. You can level a few criticisms at James Milner, but you can’t question his work ethic.

It’s not ideal. And maybe it would be nice to be in Man City’s shoes and be the biggest bully in the playground for once. But we’re not. And actually, I for one am happy we’re not.

And I’ll tell you something else too. Because I’m on my soapbox now and might as well push on before I get told to shut up. The Barry transfer saga was a first in my lifetime. It was the first time Villa really said no. No, we don’t want to sell. We have a valuation of the player. Either match it or piss off.

Which is exactly what’s happening with Milner right now. You want James Milner? Sure you can have him. £30m please. Or at least £20m and that nice bald Irish fella.

Previously our best gems got pilfered with minimum resistance. Still saddens me the way we lost Yorkie. We got bullied. Plain and simple. But there’s been a shift. We don’t get pushed around the playground so much any more. We fight back a bit. And the reason we can fight back is because we have a wealthy American chappie, who seems to want to do right by the club. And a stubborn Ulsterman, who really hates being told what to do. By anyone. Ever.

Now I can’t speak for anyone else, but I rather like to think that us refusing to sell Barry screwed Rafa and Liverpool over somewhat. And if I remember correctly we finished above them last season. And wouldn’t say no to more of the same please.

The aforementioned American and Ulsterman have guided us to three consecutive 6th placed finishes - none too shabby. We were treated to two days out at Wembley last season – thanks very much. We finally won at Old Trafford for crying out loud!

The New Season

We have just over two weeks off until it all starts again. Sure, I’ve enjoyed the summer break. But all things considered. I cannot wait to be sitting down in the Holte, the dulcet tones of several thousand Brummies ringing in my ears, and watching us pick up 3 points against West Ham.

Much like the World Cup. There is limited silverware on offer at the start of each season. The reality is that most teams go home unhappy. But I’m at least going to enjoy the ride. Oh go on then, you twisted my arm. Fuck it. Who knows? Maybe it is our turn to win something? And if not? I know I’ll at least enjoy watching it all unfold.

Oh and you can keep your ice cream. Mine’s a chips and curry sauce thank you very much.

Comments (153)

Subscribe to this comment's feed

AussieLion said:

... First?? Surely the Milner situation isnt that complicated? Cant anyone see that the most obvious thing to do is tell him the plan for the club, offer him a contract and then if he declines sell him now rather than next year for 10m? Its really not that hard. I like him but I'd rather cash in on him now for as much as possible. Also dont get to worried about not enough players being available. In a few weeks Man City will have a trove of players available. Ireland and De Jong for me thanks! If MON wants them that is.

Comment 1, made on July 28, 2010 at 1.20 pm

Damian said:

... I suspect he was told the plan when he left Newcastle and that was probably the reason why he joined - it maybe hasn't happened and now he has heard a new plan.

Comment 2, made on July 28, 2010 at 1.23 pm

Elmo said:

... The photo of that unctuous gooey mix of fat, starch and spices made me hungry enough to go and buy a portion of chips from the works canteen. I was sorely dissapointed with the results. They weren't chippy chips from the chippy and devoid of curry sauce. I hope that isn't going to be some kind of metaphor for our transfer activity this summer.

Comment 3, made on July 28, 2010 at 1.45 pm

Aero-4-Villa said:

... "We know not to panic"?? Im sorry, but i dont share your optimism. We've basically been told we're not getting ANYONE in without selling. Now with a month left we've sold NOBODY, and it is getting increasingly likely that Milner wont be sold. The only other player with a chance of leaving is Luke Young. Yes, Luke Young, the best right back in our squad... going for no more than 2.5 million! Things are looking bright alright! We have the possibility of a 2.5 million war chest on our hands. My mouth is watering. I cant wait to see the top quality players MON brings in with it! We're screwed if Randy doesnt pull the finger out...

Comment 4, made on July 28, 2010 at 1.45 pm

John Salter said:

... Thanks George, an optimistic post. Hopefully with the 'we've got to get rid of players' crisis at Mercenary s**teh and Villa holding out for what Milners worth, he'll stay. I hope the fans get behind him as long as he wears claret and blue. If grief should be directed anywhere it's to the Chav end of Mankchester. I've just ordered my tickets for the Valencia match and the season opener against East Pork so I'm happy and looking forward to the season. Pity the new shirts wont be out until September though, just may have to invest in a purple training shirt instead eh?

Comment 5, made on July 28, 2010 at 1.49 pm

Chiefy said:

... How people can still carry on criticising Cuellar in every comment is beyond me !!! Cuellar had no choice but to replace Young due to his family thingy, then low and behold our defence became as solid as a rock. Check the stats Cuellar was as good as anyone in the league and he was the one OUT of position. Granted Cuellar does not offer the attacking threat Young did or does but he has helped make our defence the third best in the league, Opta stats had him almost level with Dunne and yet you all continue to give the bloke grief. We should be applauding the fact that he had the balls to step in and play out of position for a new club, we should give him credit for helping the other lads form one of the best defence's in the league....He could be better going forward but then he could be worse at the back and we could ship goals for fun, at the moment we cant or dont have a player that does both in that position so I am grateful that Cuellar has played in a unfamiliar position and helped our team have one of the strongest defences in the league. It could be a damned site worse so get of his case and give him some credit Aston Villa get clear run at PSV playmaker Afellay Never seen that coming

Comment 6, made on July 28, 2010 at 1.55 pm

Gardner said:

... That was the best post I've read on here in ages. Well written, funny, optimistic and sensible. No, we don’t want to sell. We have a valuation of the player. Either match it or piss off. I especially liked that.

Comment 7, made on July 28, 2010 at 1.57 pm

Christian1983 said:

... I think the Droyd said on the previous thread that Man City will take Milner off us on the final day or two of the window. This is exactly what I think will happen too. They can afford him, and they want him. We want 30m, they've offered 24m. The 6m gap would probably disuade the vast majority of clubs- not Man City. Can anybody honestly see deadline day coming and passing without a bid from City for him? Maybe even a cheeky one for Young too. They'll get their man, but it'll be very late in the window, and it'll cause MAXIMUM disruption as we have no funds prior to the sale, and by then, we'll have no time either. And I'm fuming that Luke Young is being sold to our rivals. Hodgson is no mug in the transfer window, he can obviously see the talent and versatility that Luke offers. Everyone must remember the last game of the season vs Blackburn when he came on for Warnock? How REFRESHING to see a fullback who wants possession and uses it well, finds Villa shirts, protects it and gives the opposition food for thought. Agreed, Warnock does this too, but due to injury/loss of form he'd looked poor for some time. And this was Young playing down his unfavoured side! I don't want to get on Cuellar's back, because he does as best he in the terrible positional choice given to him by MON, but comparing those 2 on final day was like looking at a Ferrari next to bicycle! Maybe Cuellar does offer slightly more defensively, but offensively, they're WORLDS apart.

Comment 8, made on July 28, 2010 at 1.59 pm

Aero-4-Villa said:

... Chiefy, When did anyone criticise Cuellar? We all know hes been great at right back...

Comment 9, made on July 28, 2010 at 1.59 pm

jus nasty said:

... all this milner talk is doing my head in really i would prefer to c him leave and right now if poss 26 mil is fair and we could do alot with that money damo u slagged of the milner saga for months when we first signed him and there are plenty of replacements defour flamini parker anan too name a few milner is a good player i would use the word solid and alot of that is for his professionalism but to be fair he is not much different from when he played for us the first time round remember? Anyway cant wait for the new season have to wait for a shirt but thats another argument one question i need to ask is is oniel the man for villa im starting to think that he has done all he can i know this is of subject but i cant help thinking what another manager would have done with 120 million redknap would of got us CL is it time we put oneil on the transfer market?

Comment 10, made on July 28, 2010 at 2.06 pm

Chiefy said:

... Aero -- i typed it and posted it on the last thingy but seen as though its a long one and took me some time making careful attention trying to spell things wrong I have to post it here as well, Damo has a habit of starting things and not telling me so I post to myself on the old blogs !!!!

Comment 11, made on July 28, 2010 at 2.06 pm

CSM said:

... Does anyone think that the plan when Martin O'Neil came to the club was to finish as high as he could in the league and try to get as far as he could get in the cups!! I don't buy into the five year plan. The reason Milner wants to leave is not because he got sold a lie when he signed for Villa but the fact that Man City are offering to double his wages. Plus he will be nearer his family. It's no Mystery, it's not that he is or should be loyal to Aston Villa FC. Man City have more money and are not scared to through it around. Good Post Georg. I looked up fan in the dictionary and it states someone who admires and supports their chosen team. Not sure in that definition where slagging off a manager and owner is listed. We are not going to win the league or make champions league as we are not a big enough club. We are however going to win some games we shouldnt and lose some games we should. I love supporting Aston Villa, not because we are the greatest footballing team in the league but because we are the greatest football club in the land!

Comment 12, made on July 28, 2010 at 2.08 pm

Christian1983 said:

... Aero-4-villa, I think I've criticised him! But that's before I'd read Chiefy's post and before he'd read mine. He obviously just had a feeling in his water that somebody (me) was typing critical things at that moment... Well, I haven't actually criticised him. I think he's a top notch centreback, really top notch. I just think he's very awkward at rightback, and for all the defensive excellence he offers there, a few goals we've conceded have been directly/indirectly associated with his poor use of the ball. But again, this is NOT his fault (see MON). I just like the idea of attacking fullbacks- bit like Chelsea and Arsenal. Defence comes secondary almost. The famous words of Kevin Keegan...

Comment 13, made on July 28, 2010 at 2.09 pm

mickey86 said:

... Damian - i dont think villa had to do much persuading to get milner from newcastle so i dont think he is going becasue of what he was told will happen hasnt happened.

Comment 14, made on July 28, 2010 at 2.12 pm

jk92293 said:

... I suspect he was told the plan when he left Newcastle and that was probably the reason why he joined - it maybe hasn't happened and now he has heard a new plan didnt realise that "heard" was the new word for "i want" and "plan" was the new word for "sh*t loads of cash"!! sorry Jimmy, but you could be sipping from only 60 year old whiskey next year and not the planned 100 year old whiskey! count your pennies, son!

Comment 15, made on July 28, 2010 at 2.22 pm

b30 villain said:

... Utter b****x. I eat ice cream all year round thank you very much

Comment 16, made on July 28, 2010 at 2.24 pm

Chiefy said:

... the new one is Jeans and Bentley plus 10million for Milner ?

Comment 17, made on July 28, 2010 at 2.25 pm

AdamD said:

... MON,s transfer market policy (or lack of it)in this case is surely not the way forward , last seasons buys were admirable and our defensive record supports that but surely this leave it to the last minute policy causes some disruption to the squads preparations for the season .If MON had bags of money he would still hang on to the death for the bargains from Celtic etc! MON has taken the club forward but I really do think we need a manager with a bit more creativity and flair.

Comment 18, made on July 28, 2010 at 2.31 pm

Villa_Chris said:

... Brilliantly written George, always an entertaining read Chiefy- They don't play for Man City

Comment 19, made on July 28, 2010 at 2.34 pm

Chiefy said:

... Villa Chris -- not yet they dont

Comment 20, made on July 28, 2010 at 2.40 pm

Rob_The_Villain said:

... Aston Villa get clear run at PSV playmaker Afellay Chiefy, where did you hear that? I'd love that to happen, ever since I saw this video - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s_VH2L8oK84 I've been watching him with interest in the Dutch league and he's awesome! Showed glimpses of class at the WC too. A definite solution to our attacking problems. I hate it when people say if we had Harry Redknapp we'd be in the CL! If he took over when MON did then we'd be around 10th in the league. Harry took over a team that already had an awesome squad and didn't really have to do much with it. MON took over a team that had an absolute piss poor squad and basically had to start from scratch. So let's shut up about Harry Redknapp is it!

Comment 21, made on July 28, 2010 at 2.45 pm

jonnie5 said:

... I'm not being funny but that picture looks like a portion of chips covered in runny s**t.

Comment 22, made on July 28, 2010 at 2.50 pm

Christian1983 said:

... Villa Chris -- not yet they dont Now there's an interesting theory that hasn't been tried yet. Man City could buy players from other clubs just so they could include them in deals for players they actually want For instance, if they can prise Parker away from West Ham, we could have him in the Milner deal!

Comment 23, made on July 28, 2010 at 2.51 pm

Chiefy said:

... That video is great what a goal

Comment 24, made on July 28, 2010 at 2.54 pm

jonnie5 said:

... That is a class finish thats up there with that pen on here the other day.

Comment 25, made on July 28, 2010 at 3.00 pm

Mowgs said:

... Anyone else think it would be worthwhile trying to switch Curtis Davies with Robbie Keane? Tottenham look short defensively if its true that Woodgate is shot. And lord knows Keane would improve us significantly. Or should we be hanging on to Curtis for a little while longer yet?

Comment 26, made on July 28, 2010 at 3.02 pm

Christian1983 said:

... Great finish, but don't believe all the hype surrounding great goals- check out this one from Ibrahimovic when at Ajax- and I think he's pants. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QcwJazQpPFo Amazing heh??!!!

Comment 27, made on July 28, 2010 at 3.03 pm

Christian1983 said:

... That's a great shout, Mowgs.

Comment 28, made on July 28, 2010 at 3.04 pm

VillaNick said:

... George, 4 words: 'Air, Breath, Fresh, Of' spring to mind. Some fans on here are so deluded its untrue. Enjoy the ride as you say, maybe, just maybe we can surprise a few next season. No-one is expecting it, just the way I like it!

Comment 29, made on July 28, 2010 at 3.04 pm

andy5759 said:

... Chiefy. so I post to myself on the old blogs !!!! You can go blind doing that.

Comment 30, made on July 28, 2010 at 3.05 pm

Mowgs said:

... VillaNick I'm an optimistic f**ker me. If I lost both my legs in a horrific accident I'd be grateful that I'd at least save money on trousers. Being a footy fan is mostly about misery. But at least it makes the good days so much sweeter.

Comment 31, made on July 28, 2010 at 3.24 pm

VillaNick said:

... Being a footy fan is mostly about misery. But at least it makes the good days so much sweeter. Actually I see your point, being a Man United fan is probably quite dull and not being like a true footie fan at all.

Comment 32, made on July 28, 2010 at 3.33 pm

Mowgs said:

... I've had this discussion with a Utd season ticket holder colleague of mine. He seems to think it's jut as bad because you expect to win all the time. So when you do lose. It hurts so much more. Obviously I have fairly limited sympathy for him.

Comment 33, made on July 28, 2010 at 3.51 pm

Martin Laursen said:

... Has anyone got a link for the goals from last night's match?

Comment 34, made on July 28, 2010 at 3.52 pm

Trinity1981 said:

... West Ham are saying a big 'NO' to anybody trying to buy Parker so we should just say it is £30m for Milner, but if the price isn't met by 1st August then no sale. We don't want City offring £30m at the end of August.

Comment 35, made on July 28, 2010 at 4.12 pm

Mowgs said:

... I should imagine MON has told Man City if they want Milner then they need to have offered the right amount of money by a certain time. Thus giving him long enough to rebuild. That was the approach he took with Liverpool when they wanted Barry.

Comment 36, made on July 28, 2010 at 4.16 pm

Geoff said:

... Yes precisely

Comment 37, made on July 28, 2010 at 4.23 pm

Geoff said:

... It has been linked before about Curties Davies being swapped for Robbie Keane. I think Davies for Keane could happen soon, perhaps by the first of the month, because with the Sales of Sidwell and Luke Young, we should have an extra million or two to meet the valuation difference between Keane and Davies. I cannot wsit to get Keane in here, he is the PERFECT setup man for Gabby.

Comment 38, made on July 28, 2010 at 4.26 pm

Rortyboy said:

... Thanks Churchill for your comments under last blog. You are right.

Comment 39, made on July 28, 2010 at 4.38 pm

AV4EVER said:

... Watching that first goal against Walsall last night shocked me a little, did anyone else think that they were watching a slimmer faster Carew! I know it was against Walsall, another thing, it was nice to see us actually beat Walsall in a pre-season friendly.

Comment 40, made on July 28, 2010 at 4.48 pm

Damian said:

... From The Fiver "Has there ever been a starker illustration of football's complete detachment from reality than a £30m price tag on James Milner? Surely that makes every person in Britain who has ever kicked a football worth a few hundred thousand?" - Jason Tew.

Comment 41, made on July 28, 2010 at 4.49 pm

Mowgs said:

... As with any commodity. James Milner is only worth what someone is willing to pay for him. Which at the moment appears to be £24m.

Comment 42, made on July 28, 2010 at 5.05 pm

VillaNick said:

... Watching that first goal against Walsall last night shocked me a little, did anyone else think that they were watching a slimmer faster Carew! What site are you watching it on dude?

Comment 43, made on July 28, 2010 at 5.15 pm

The Droyd said:

... I like the post George. You are right, Kopparberg is utterly rank. I am a huge fan of Perry and Cider but Kopparberg is disgusting as Magners. Best to stick to a quality brand like Westons.

Comment 44, made on July 28, 2010 at 5.45 pm

fastbackace said:

... areo- we must be screwed because we havent signed anyone... we got sixth last year... but were screwed because our defense is horrible... we are sure to get relegated... we are sure to lose every match.... hint of sarcasm...

Comment 45, made on July 28, 2010 at 6.30 pm

Hobbsy said:

... Just watched premier league years on sky sports, last season!!! For all the apparent crap football we played according to damo and a few others, we were soo close to fourth last year!!!! We are better than we are credited for!!!! Up the villa

Comment 46, made on July 28, 2010 at 6.43 pm

Damian said:

... Hobbsy you really are a bit of a muppet did you expect them to cram in the rubbish football for 2 hours?

Comment 47, made on July 28, 2010 at 6.52 pm

Hobbsy said:

... I am a muppet for having a differant opinion from you, you are the small minded muppett considering your opinion to be of higher value than your fellow fans do you think because you write a blog you are of a more educated footballing knowledge than everybody else? Showed your hand with your petty insults there haven't you, but as you can refuse the posts I'm sure this won't be published

Comment 48, made on July 28, 2010 at 7.08 pm

Longman said:

... Yes Hobbsy, you are a muppet, how dare you come on and say something slightly positive about the team, this the The Villa Blog you know, not a bloody villa supporters site!

Comment 49, made on July 28, 2010 at 7.11 pm

Damian said:

... Hobbsy no you are not a muppet for having a different opinion. what did you expect the TV programme to show, two hours of rubbish? think about it and it might all fall into place as for my opinion - i dont consider mine having a higher value, i'm not actually sure if opinions have values - but run with that if you want and no, it isn't because i write a blog that i think i have more footballing knowledge than you as for showing my hand - no, actually, i haven't. byt you'e shown yours. again. like i said; muppet

Comment 50, made on July 28, 2010 at 7.14 pm

Longman said:

... oooooh, touchy touchy

Comment 51, made on July 28, 2010 at 7.17 pm

Hobbsy said:

... Yeah damien, you correct, I base every opinion on football I have on what sky sports ofers during the prem years!!! The affore mentions episode reminded me that last season was great, for me as a villa fan, I enjoyed every minute of every game, maybe with the exception of torres's late winner but even in defeat at arsenal I was still watching and enjoying my side, and for me we were good last season, you jump all over people for a positive demeanor because your are inherrantly negative. Grow up damo, we have all heard your opinions, but we don't have to carry the same ones ourselves believe it or not mate this isn't a bad time to be a villa fan!!

Comment 52, made on July 28, 2010 at 7.26 pm

Hobbsy said:

... Cheers longman were not all doom merchants!!!

Comment 53, made on July 28, 2010 at 7.29 pm

TheDiamond said:

... McGeady not named in squad in Celtic's CL qualifier. He's definitely leaving then, it's just a question of where.

Comment 54, made on July 28, 2010 at 7.43 pm

Damian said:

... Hobbsy i'm not saying you do base all your decisions on that but in your original comment, that i replied to, you wrote For all the apparent crap football we played according to damo and a few others as if you have just forgotten all the crap football we did play; all the long balls, all the missed crosses, all the lost possession, all the missed corners, missed free kicks and missed opportunities we were lucky to finish 6th last season - in fact closer to 8th than 5th - but from 2 hours, all that was forgotten as for me growing up and having the same opinions - never have i ever suggested people should, but i do expect you to catch up next season

Comment 55, made on July 28, 2010 at 7.46 pm

Longman said:

... Lucky to finish 6th! Oh yes, cos we spent all season around mid table then that lucky last minute push got us 6th. Oh hold on, that didn't happen, we were4th/5th/6th all season. I'm sorry Damian, but you can't say that a team that were 4th, 5th or 6th ALL SEASON were lucky to finish 6th.

Comment 56, made on July 28, 2010 at 7.59 pm

Hobbsy said:

... Closer to 8th than fitth is a fact mate, a fact that we lost the last two games, but at 36 games played we were joint fourth with city and spurs, and we were also 1 nil up at city, it's all shoulda, woulda, coulda. But I like to remember beating Liverpool, Chelsea, united, blues twice, two visits to wembley. I went to 33 football matches last season, 29 villa home and away, and 4 Barnsley as my best pal is a fan, I am a knowledgeable chap on most things football, I have been to the riazor and watched my Spanish side deportivo la coruna, I don't need to catch you up next season and it is an offensive comment that you believe it is required. You need to learn that we are all differant, when you watch a game you will see differant things to me, that dosent mean you know more than me just that you see things diffferant. I won't argue over facts, and alot of your points I agree with, but then again it was not me labbelling you a muppet was it, that was your ignorent comment was it not????

Comment 57, made on July 28, 2010 at 8.02 pm

Mellon said:

... WHAT IS PLAN B I'm starting to get a deep anxiety in the pit of my stomach. No it's not the bitter prospect of Milner (our best player last year) leaving but actually the possibility that he may be staying this season!!! I felt let down and disappointed when I learnt that Milner did want to leave Villa for a bigger Club with more ambition, better chances of winning silverware and a higher salary...etc etc It still doesn't sit well when I try and make un biased sense of it but I have started to get used to the idea. In fact as time went by I increasingly got a tingle of new optimism at the prospect of getting £30m (way more than he is worth) and potentially bringing two or three new top players. We need to try something different and shake it up a bit, the over inflated and much mooted Milner deal would help us do that. If Milner stays we can expect last seasons serving again and about £10m for Milner next summer when he leaves for Man Utd who could then afford him. He doesn’t want to stay so I hope he moves on and so can we. As it is, the teams who finished above us are all better equipped to do so again and as it stands, 6th would be a good finish this season.

Comment 58, made on July 28, 2010 at 8.20 pm

Hobbsy said:

... Mellon, I agree with everything you wrote, but it is a wierd feeling that we WANT one of our best players to go!!! 30m is alot of cash

Comment 59, made on July 28, 2010 at 8.29 pm

Villa since 1958 said:

... Hobbsy/Longman, If you think we played good football last season, then you clearly don't know what you are talking about. We were very lucky to get 6th last season - the only reason we did was that Manure & Liverpoo were throwing away points early in the season and we were one of the beneficiaries of their apparent generosity, otherwise our perormances and results against the likes of Stoke, Wigan, Wolves etc would have put us in a table position our one-dimensional low-quality football deserved. I would repeat the point I have made many times here - that this is not the terraces, it is a blog, support the team on the terraces, discuss them on the blog. If people agreed with each other constantly, there would be no discussion, and no blog. Just because someone doesn't support your point of view doesn't make them wrong - quite the opposite in my opinion.

Comment 60, made on July 28, 2010 at 8.37 pm

Hobbsy said:

... Villa since 1958 I think we were luckier to beat bayern Munich than finish sixth in a 38 game season, and when have myself or longman put anything about us playing good football, and simply by writting on here we are discussing it so what exactly is your point because your last statement was pointless??

Comment 61, made on July 28, 2010 at 8.48 pm

Longman said:

... 1958, I don't disagree with you re the blog Vs terraces argument but too many people have a lack of balance and are overly negative of our current situation. I have stated on here time and time again that some of MONs decision baffle me - Luke Young going being one of them. But, I also see a great many positives and feel that they need to be pointed out. You say about points of view, but your post is basically disregarding mine so it's ever so slightly ironic and hypocritical. I haven't disregarded anyones, I just argue my point which is what you are saying is the point of the blog! I also try and keep my posts positive as the negativity is like a cancer eating away at our fans, infecting them one by one, and it DOES affect the support on the terraces. The shocking atmosphere at home last season actually made me consider jacking in my season ticket (albeit it for about 3 seconds) as it disgusted me. If we had support at VP like we do at away games with a fan base fully supportive both in attitude and vocal it would make such a difference.

Comment 62, made on July 28, 2010 at 8.54 pm

Hobbsy said:

... Just to clarify the football could be better but if we win 20 plus games next season playing the same way I will happily take it

Comment 63, made on July 28, 2010 at 8.55 pm

Hobbsy said:

... Again longman is correct the atmospherecatcaway games is terrific villa park we all expect us to beat all comers, it don't happen, however on damiens point on poor football, I do think the majority of the bad football has come at villa park

Comment 64, made on July 28, 2010 at 9.06 pm

Greg Davillain1887 said:

... longman, ive banged that drum myself and got shot down in flames by andy and ak27, i think the support at villa has to be better, years of mediocrity i guess has made the fans ungratefull for being a premier league club, i wonder if we got relegated for a few years maybe the support would improve once we got back

Comment 65, made on July 28, 2010 at 9.37 pm

Villa since 1958 said:

... OK Hobbsy, I'll bite. You're complaining about the negativity on this site, and having a go at Damian (and now me)for complaining. The reason we are all complaining is because the football is rubbish. That's my point. We haven't won anything and don't look like winning anything. That's my point. As you've been shooting your mouth off about how many games you've been to, and how you're a "proper" supporter I would have thought you's have spotted that the football is rubbish - that's my point. We're not negative because we're bi-polar, it's because the football is rubbish, MON's blown our budget on players he won't play, because he bought Emule, because he thinks Carlos is a RB, because he can't rotate not even on a fairground ride, because his idea of an attacking substitution is Sidwell, because he bought Sidwell, . . . getting my point yet?

Comment 66, made on July 28, 2010 at 9.41 pm

Longman said:

... Calm down mate, you'll give yourself a coronary. I don't understand why you feel the need to go so radio rental, Hobbsy's just giving his opinion, just because he doesn't support your point of view doesn't make him wrong - quite the opposite in my opinion (did you see what I did there). If you feel negative that's up to you, I don't quite agree with it all but I respect it. Now go and get yourself a cup of Ovaltine and take 10 deep breaths.

Comment 67, made on July 28, 2010 at 9.57 pm

churchill said:

... Churchill It's not what our manager says that worries me. It's what he does. Similarly, Redknapp might talk utter tosh the vast majority of the time, but his work speaks for itself. Simeon As it happens, I love listening to Arthur Arry. Just tells it like it is. And yes, his achievements in the last two years speak for themselves. Villa-Chris, Dan Wilson, Chiefy, Genital Grinder, Martin Laursen, Longman. There may be others. Gentlemen, I couldn't help notice last night how much fun you had on the official site, satirising some of our more notable posters. Very funny. Where was I? YES, YOU MISERABLE FCUKERS WHERE WAS I? Am I that insignificant that you couldn't be bothered? Has it come to this? The missus observed the admission and sneered "I've been telling you, jerry, you're full of s**t. No-one cares. Get a life." I can take a hint. Goodbye.

Comment 68, made on July 28, 2010 at 10.16 pm

Villa since 1958 said:

... Longman, Had the tea, very nice too. Radio Rental, me? nooooo. I do however respect his opinion (and yours), and reserve the right to hold the opposite opinion. My rant above was an attempt to support the opinion, and if I'd gone Radio Rental I could have continued for 10 more pages or, as my wife would say, for a "don't get him started" amount of time. I do get riled however by bloggers who come on here and attack Damian and others who simply want better for AVFC, people who haven't bought into the MON is Messiah mindset. That said, I now retreat and leave the defence to Damian, Simeon, AK, Andy, . . . who are more than capable of taking care of themselves.

Comment 69, made on July 28, 2010 at 10.18 pm

Longman said:

... You ain't goin nowhere Jerry, like in most things in life the woman is wrong!

Comment 70, made on July 28, 2010 at 10.35 pm

Mellon said:

... Hobbsy, mutual agreement then, a bit rare on this blog.. With respect to Mr Milner it comes down to value for Villa. Do we get better value keeping him or exchanging him for £30m? If they offered less than we paid, you would have to say no. If we got our money back, (the probable scenario next summer if he doesn't go) you would still have to say no as he has improved and to replace him would cost more, like for like. But anything more than £18m and you have to think hard. As for well £25m + we are talking Monoply money time. Incidentally, have Villa ever finished in the same position four seasons in a row?

Comment 71, made on July 28, 2010 at 10.47 pm

EVERYBODY LOVES WEIMANN said:

... We should get Santa Cruz in my opinion also Afellay looks good

Comment 72, made on July 28, 2010 at 10.53 pm

Longman said:

... Santa Cruz, what? He's fit for an average of 10 games has season and since his first season as a pro has only hit double figures once!

Comment 73, made on July 28, 2010 at 10.58 pm

EVERYBODY LOVES WEIMANN said:

... shut up longman

Comment 74, made on July 28, 2010 at 11.04 pm

Simeon said:

... Villa since 1958 I think you've summed things up very nicely. My only concern is that this is not the first time that our manager's weaknesses have been pointed out, and yet there still persists a belief that things will work out, because Martin O'Neill is a good manager. And of course, that Martin O'Neill is a good manager (and perhaps simply saying he's good does him a disservice) is a fact, because virtually everyone in the media says he is, and that many experts can't be wrong. The funny things is that there seem to be so many fans who recognise that so much of what our manager is doing is not just wrong, but completely senseless. And yet some believe that he will simply stop doing these crazy things, and others believe that in spite of this craziness we'll be successful (because all manager's make mistakes from time to time - and this is a point that is impossible to argue with, by the way). Then there are other fans who refuse to acknowledge our manager's failings (at least publicly), and prefer to either focus on the positives (many of which aren't actually positives as such, but rather hopes and aspirations), or shout down arguments without actually addressing the points made therein. I can understand this attitude to an extent, because no-one likes to see something or someone they love criticised. But normally it is criticism from 'outside' that is ignored or dicredited. The only criticism allowed is from 'inhouse'. And yet the vast majority of posters on this blog are Villa supporters, and those who aren't tend to be upfront about their true allegiances. (I couldn't say for sure that every poster who claims to be a Villa fan actually is, but I've never read a comment that aroused any suspicion - or at least not one that I can remember.) So the criticism is coming from inside the club, i.e. from genuine fans. Maybe it is the inevitably impersonal nature of the internet that stops people from recognising this simple truth. But as you yourself say Villa since 1958, those of us who are critical of our manager simply want better for this club. We love the club, but we don't like the way things are going at the club - just as we loved the club when Ellis was chairman, but didn't like what he was doing. That we voice our concerns doesn't make us lesser supporters. I've said it before, and no doubt I'll say it again: I have no hope that we will do anything worthwhile as long as the current manager is in charge. I've held this view for well over a year now. Throughout this period I have always been aware that our manager was not only holding the club back, but also doing structural damage to the club. In the last few months, the damage he is doing (and indeed has already done) has become more obvious, as the decisions that he has made in the past begin to take effect. The reality of our financial situation is also now hitting home. Whereas before I have felt that there is the possibility that we can still achieve success if the right man is found to manage the team, now I believe that not only will we not bring that man into the club, but that potential success is now so far distant in the future as to be not worth worrying about, given that so much that is unpredictable can happen to change the current course of history. In short, I now have no expectation that Villa will be anything other than a mid-table club. Given that the opportunity was there, with the investment that was made in the club by our owner, and the relatively weak positions of our then-competitors, to take the crucial step onto the Champions League stage and really build the club, it's a bitter pill to swallow. But no expectations mean that the anger and disgust that I felt towards our manager has, if not diminished, then receded into the background. What's done is done. The course has been set, and there's nothing new to say. Our manager has been very foolish, and the extent of his folly is gradually being exposed. I take no satisfaction in having seen it coming.

Comment 75, made on July 28, 2010 at 11.05 pm

Longman said:

... zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Comment 76, made on July 28, 2010 at 11.09 pm

Holte_ender_4_life said:

... I think someone mentioned it earlier regarding Mcgeady not playing tonight. Which obviously means he is on his way out. Now intrestingly I was watching Sky Sports news during the Celtic game, and the commentator for the Celtic game mentioned that in Scotland there are heavy rumours that Mcgeady is on his way to Villa within the week. Now its prob just rumours, just seemed interesting that the commentator broguht it up.

Comment 77, made on July 28, 2010 at 11.09 pm

Simeon said:

... Churchill Sometimes he might manage to tell it as it is. I guess more often than that he tells it like he sees it. But I'm not interested in hearing about how he sees things, unless it happens to have some relevance to the Villa. And even then what he says cannot be trusted. He's cunning, I'll give him that. But cunning is not the most endearing of qualities. I just don't like the guy, and I generally won't take an interest in something someone whom I don't like says.

Comment 78, made on July 28, 2010 at 11.11 pm

Longman said:

... Constructive post ELW. No need to get arsey, I was only making a point, see his record below. Seems like a perfect replacement for Heskey!!! AppsGoals Olimpia 1998–993618 Bayern Munich 1999–00327 2000–01195 2001–02328 2002–03145 2003–04376 2004–0540 2005–06154 2006–07353 Blackburn Rovers 2007–084323 2008–09276 Manchester City 2009–10224 Career total30085

Comment 79, made on July 28, 2010 at 11.19 pm

Longman said:

... Try again: Apps___Goals Olimpia 1998–99___36___18 Bayern Munich 1999–00___32___7 2000–01___19___5 2001–02___32___8 2002–03___14___5 2003–04___37___6 2004–05___4___0 2005–06___15___4 2006–07___35___3 Blackburn Rovers 2007–08___43___23 2008–09___27___6 Manchester City 2009–10___ 22___4 Career total___300___85

Comment 80, made on July 28, 2010 at 11.21 pm

EVERYBODY LOVES WEIMANN said:

... The Miror has said Liverpool want petrov to replace mascherano

Comment 81, made on July 28, 2010 at 11.27 pm

churchill said:

... He's cunning, I'll give him that. Simeon I'm probably naive but I don't see that in him (cunning). He's way too unguarded in his comments. If you mean poker-playing cunning then I'd agree. But then, I don't see that as a weakness in a wheeler dealer. He's a cockney. So we see him as a a cross between Arthur Daley and the Queen Mother (if she was still with us). A lovable rogue. To be fair, I love the bloke, so I'm probably biased. He's got spurs playing some lovely football.

Comment 82, made on July 28, 2010 at 11.29 pm

mikey18 said:

... It too has dawned on me that MoN is doing the best he can do for the club. After 4 years it seems the best he could do is 6th, maybe after 5 he could do better, but after 5 years your going to do the best your going to do. IF the last season we had is going to be the best under MoN then, would even the most tenacious of MoN supporters, contemplate another manager? Of course its impossible to tell if last season was the best we could ever have under O'Neil but i mean if he hasn't don't any better after 5 seasons and the money is drying up and players want to leave then i think its a pretty safe assumption!

Comment 83, made on July 28, 2010 at 11.34 pm

mikey18 said:

... Harry Redknapp is the complete opposite to MoN, He get his team playing great football, hes great in the transfer market, his man management is poor and he love RB's (Kyle Naughton, Kyle Walker, Alan Hutton, Corluka and they are being linked with Micah Richards)

Comment 84, made on July 28, 2010 at 11.40 pm

Andy said:

... Simeon...Without sounding gay..I really like you. Your posts are tops. Your posts get a bit long for my liking. It's not your fault. I must apologise for having a short attention span. Arty types can be a bit like that I'm not sure why there even needs to be any debate about negative or positive people on this blog. I'm sure most will liken my views to Simeons. I know I'm not a negative person. In fact, far from it. I always walk round with my head held high, a smile on my face and always the first person to step in when needed. I'm not the type of person that sees problems in life. Generally I only see solutions. So it does seem strange that when a person such as myself does question something about the club, they are branded negative or other derogatory label. But that's ok, because I know that I have supported Villa for nearly 40 years and hope to do so for another 40. I knew about Aston Villa probably before I was 4, but it was my fourth birthday I got a Villa shirt from my grandfather. All my life I've looked forward to having the banter with my grandfather about his life and he loved to talk Aston Villa. It's one of the first things he talks about when I visit. On Tuesday we were informed he's got 2nd stage aggressive cancer. He was only taken I'll a week or so ago...! Anyway, long story short he's got days, maybe a couple of weeks. Sat with him yesterday, while he's still capable of conversation (he's always been sharp as a razor and still is for now) we briefly discussed his illness. I said..'Well at least The Villa always win their games in heaven'. His little face brightened and he showed me his cheesy grin. Ain't it amazing how that little bit of faith in your football club helps in the most traumatic of times.

Comment 85, made on July 28, 2010 at 11.43 pm

abz1888 said:

... Surely not true..Petrov linked to Liverpool!! http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Liverpool-plot-shock-move-for-Aston-Villa-star-Stiliyan-Petrov-as-Javier-Mascherano-replacement-Exclusive-article539217.html

Comment 86, made on July 29, 2010 at 12.00 am

Maindog said:

... Andy... Sorry about the news of your grandfathers illness. Lets hope the Villa can get 3 points for him on August 13th!!!

Comment 87, made on July 29, 2010 at 12.01 am

Maindog said:

... Sorry thats August 14th!!!!

Comment 88, made on July 29, 2010 at 12.02 am

Simeon said:

... Andy A beautiful post. Thank you for sharing your relationship with your grandfather with us. I hope that these next few weeks provide plenty more opportunities for you and your grandfather to shoot the breeze before he goes to a better place. A bit of humanity goes such a long way on the internet, and what you've said really puts things into perspective. Thank you for your very kind remarks by the way. I didn't think what you said sounded gay for a moment! I would love to post more succinctly (and I certainly appreciate those posters who do), but there are times when there seems to be so much that needs to be said. I guess I try to be thorough, and maybe at times I end up with a bit too much detail. But I figure, hey, we're all Villa obsessives here anyway, and my posts are there for whoever has the stomach to read them!

Comment 89, made on July 29, 2010 at 12.03 am

Simeon said:

... churchill Spurs do knock it around nicely, and the guy certainly seems to know how to get things done - including transfer business. I was paying him a compliment by calling him cunning. I think in football often that poker-playing cunning is more valuable than a powerful intellect. Anyway, he rubs you up the right way, and that's all well and good. I'm sure if he were managing here I'd be more inclined to focus on his nobler qualities.

Comment 90, made on July 29, 2010 at 12.07 am

Longman said:

... All the best for your Grandfather Andy

Comment 91, made on July 29, 2010 at 12.09 am

Andy said:

... Thanks for the best wishes guys..it's appreciated. I didn't put it on for that. It was just something I thought I'd mention, because I wanted to make the point about how support for something like a football club gives so much strength to individuals. I'm not a religious soul, but I suppose we can liken a football club as a religion, a ground as our church and us as the parish. So.....Religion can be a divisive thing, but let's all remember, we all follow the same gospel, whatever our viewpoint.

Comment 92, made on July 29, 2010 at 12.27 am

churchill said:

... Andy Sounds like the old fella had a good innings. I hope you're able to tell him you shared your thoughts with us and we all wished him well. And you. Goodnight, God Bless.

Comment 93, made on July 29, 2010 at 12.33 am

Falmouthvillain said:

... Summer is over it's not even August yet! Anyway to the Milner thing it's all getting a bit boring now isn't it. Either get the money and get some good players in, or keep him and move on.... Let's just sort it out soon please.

Comment 94, made on July 29, 2010 at 12.38 am

walshy said:

... all the best andy! moving post!

Comment 95, made on July 29, 2010 at 3.54 am

fastbackace said:

... churchill- if it means anything wish i could see more post of u, JPA, and a few others from 2 years ago. always seemed to be a bit of friendship with all u guys... now-a-days i just dont feel the love.

Comment 96, made on July 29, 2010 at 5.47 am

jk92293 said:

... Beat wishes to your Grandfather Andy!

Comment 97, made on July 29, 2010 at 7.04 am

Chiefy said:

... Woohoo young wants a pay off? !?! Turkey wants big john? !?! Blackburn want the mule, thankgod Liverscum want petrov, like thats gonna happen Time to act MON lets see what we got

Comment 98, made on July 29, 2010 at 7.58 am

taglor said:

... There is not 1 quote from any source regarding Petrov to Liverpool, yet more jouralistic bulls**t from the red tops. Anyway Hodgson is a good manager, he wouldn't want him at 30 for 7 mill, complete crap.

Comment 99, made on July 29, 2010 at 8.37 am

AussieLion said:

... Good Luck to your Grandfather Andy. The Petrov to Liverpool thing is why I came on. Surely not? Im pretty sure Hodgson could find someone younger, better and cheaper. But Im not sure I'd take the 7m anyway. If Petrov and Sidwell go, the only senior mids we'd have would be Reo-Coker and Salifou! if it means anything wish i could see more post of u, JPA, and a few others from 2 years ago. always seemed to be a bit of friendship with all u guys... now-a-days i just dont feel the love. I agree fastback. Even though I havent been using this site for that long, lately I've noticed abit of animosity between fans on this site.

Comment 100, made on July 29, 2010 at 9.03 am

VillaDude said:

... Not a big fan of Petrov but wouldn't like to see him go because we literally have no one else to take his place... I don't exepct any transfer movement until we get back, maybe not even before the season starts...

Comment 101, made on July 29, 2010 at 9.06 am

Villa_Chris said:

... I'm a big fan of Petrov and hope its bulls**t. He does his job very well; breaks up the play, retains possession and draws fouls. He would be massively missed. Churchill Regarding the light-hearted piss-take on the OS the other night, there was nothing to make fun of with your posts, they are always a good read and very entertaining. Sorry

Comment 102, made on July 29, 2010 at 9.12 am

frosty said:

... Woohoo young wants a pay off? !?! Turkey wants big john? !?! Blackburn want the mule, thankgod Liverscum want petrov, like thats gonna happen Time to act MON lets see what we got Chiefy - Luke Young is a disgrace, we offer him compassionate leave and turn a blind eye when he finally appears against Chelsea and plays like Rodney Trotter, now he wants a payoff... suprise suprise. He would only be cover at Liverpool which is why he won't go and his wage demands are too much for them, complete joke.

Comment 103, made on July 29, 2010 at 9.16 am

bobvillian said:

... if 7mill bid for petrov is true i would gladly take him to anfield myself?but i cant belieave hodgson would rate him that highly.on the transfer front i cant see any movement for at leased 1 week or even at all.we are in backward mode big time.

Comment 104, made on July 29, 2010 at 9.19 am

frosty said:

... Andy - very best wishes to your Grandfather, hope he makes the opening day to watch the Villa one last time.

Comment 105, made on July 29, 2010 at 9.23 am

Lew Chatterleys lover said:

... Come on 7 million for a 30 year old is good business and we could use 4 or 5 million of that for Flamini who is in his mid 20s. Petrov has been a decent player for us but he struggles to last a full game and will only get slower.

Comment 106, made on July 29, 2010 at 9.28 am

VillaDude said:

... Replace Petrov with Flamini and we are laughing, but we need to buy Flamini first... Petrov can't shoot, slows after 60 minutes, when tackles he often fouls, has no pace. He can though intercept, is composed on the ball and keeps the ball moving.

Comment 107, made on July 29, 2010 at 9.39 am

mickey86 said:

... petrov to liverpool for 7million. cant decide about this one. but i think if he does go we will realise how good he was in central midfield. but £7million we will be getting our money back for him and it will free up the roll for reo-coker to have one last crack at it. if not, we could sign jermaine jenas to play in that roll. if not jermaine jenas then bring in someone like gilberto silva for one or two seasons untill we can find a better replacement. we might aswell give luke young the pay off he wants, he will cost us £7.8million in wages over the last 3 years of his contract, and by then hell be 34. hes not going to play for us much so give him the £1million, get £1.75million in transfer fees and everyones happy.

Comment 108, made on July 29, 2010 at 9.39 am

mickey86 said:

... also - hodgsons only ben in charge of a ''big'' team for 5 minutes and he is already whinging!!

Comment 109, made on July 29, 2010 at 9.41 am

nix2 said:

... Great post, seems to have become hijacked as usual by a bunch of mugs who'd prostitute their own mother just to get another fix. Lets sell Milner for 30m and we can buy 3 players. Lets sell him for 200m and but 20 players, we can still only play 11 on a pitch at one time, and we know how much MON likes to look to the bench. I'd like to see Luke Young go, he earns too much, and he's not a team player, he holds the ball far too much, and doesn't choose the right pass. I know the same can be said for Cuellar, but at least he don't get bullied off the ball or miss a critical header. Would also offer Licjah a chance in the Europa league. I'd make NRC the captain of our European campaign aswell, make him feel wanted a bit whilst raising the value back up. I for one like NRC, he's just like Petrov expcept he can run forwards, rather than just sidewards. If MON will use the 25 man squad I can see League Cup Final, FA Cup Final and Europa cup final, finishing 4th in the league. Spurs will slip up, they won't have the squad to cope, and ManCiteh will be at war with each other after the squad goes to 25. In fighting will bring them down. Optimism is great, and it does give hope, puts a smile on your face. Now if your miserable, you can read it and think, what an idiot, there just not rational, but that is the beautiful thing about football, it aint!

Comment 110, made on July 29, 2010 at 9.47 am

Villa_Chris said:

... NRC, he's just like Petrov expcept he can run forwards, rather than just sidewards. Think you've forgotten that he's not as composed as Petrov and can't pass like Petrov... two very important traits in an anchoring midfielder.

Comment 111, made on July 29, 2010 at 9.56 am

VillaDude said:

... We have only 1 player in our starting line up who is composed on the ball and not rushed into the pass with his head down and that's Petrov... He not the best, but is replaceable..

Comment 112, made on July 29, 2010 at 9.58 am

vogra. said:

... 7Mill for Petrov, id snatch their thiefving hands off for that, i'd drive him there myself, and if anyone thinks Everton would sell Flamini is living in a dream world, your talking of a bid close to 20mill to get him, and that isn't going to happen. And us linked with Jenas, lord please no....

Comment 113, made on July 29, 2010 at 10.13 am

Chalky said:

... Vogra Barking up the wrong tree there mate!

Comment 114, made on July 29, 2010 at 10.19 am

John Salter said:

... Some humerous posts on here from last night especially the battle of opinions. What everyone should appreciate is that we're all Villa fans and whilst we have an opinion and that opinion may be different from others, there's no need to rip each other apart for it. Some people try to ram their view down others throats and it's crass stupidity as is the overly sarcastic commentary sometimes. We all want the best for the team but arguing and attacking others views isn't going to improve anything. Some would think we had been relgated last season instead of just missing out on the 4th spot, which is fact. With regrads to no new faces at the moment, the owner and manager are ensuring Villa don't get ripped off and that we have a future as a football club. Petrov - Where have these stories coming from? Is there any substance to them? Chiefy!!!

Comment 115, made on July 29, 2010 at 10.21 am

VillaDude said:

... LOL @ Vogra...Flamini from AC Milan (ex Arsenal)

Comment 116, made on July 29, 2010 at 10.27 am

Chalky said:

... Anyone who thinks the criticism on here of the players manager and club will stay on here and not find its way to VP is bonkers. Are we getting going to have a sign outside the ground saying not blog type criticism here please? The first time we have a Wigan type situation or a player has a bad game people are going to be booing and getting on their backs. I’m that’s the nature of people, some actually enjoy it. As for MONs signings, he has made mistakes just like all other managers – some people seem to forget that. All I would say is that the vast majority of people on here know less about managing than MON does and even less about the circumstances in which those signings were made.

Comment 117, made on July 29, 2010 at 10.29 am

Villa_Chris said:

... Everton would sell Flamini ??

Comment 118, made on July 29, 2010 at 10.30 am

Villa_Chris said:

... He doesn't play for them does he?

Comment 119, made on July 29, 2010 at 10.30 am

Hobbsy said:

... John salter, I think that is a good, well balanced post !!!!

Comment 120, made on July 29, 2010 at 10.34 am

VillaDude said:

... Fulham are set to name their manager (Mark Hughes). A final desicion on sidwell??

Comment 121, made on July 29, 2010 at 10.35 am

Chalky said:

... Lets buy them both, Flamini and Fellaini

Comment 122, made on July 29, 2010 at 10.37 am

taglor said:

... Andy all the best for your Grandfather, I'm a nurse and not claiming to know as much as doctors but if you ever want a chat or to ask anything let me know and I would gladly get in touch mate. I just got a lovely white baguette from a specialist bakers and it has made my day, then it struck me that that one baguette has made me happier than Villa have lately?! I mean aren't you supposed to get happiness and joy from supporting?

Comment 123, made on July 29, 2010 at 10.38 am

Villa_Chris said:

... taglor In answer to your question; Yes you should but I think at this time of year, its the anticipation of the new season and the patients of waiting for new faces coming in that gets in the way of a fan's enjoyment and happiness of supporting. Remember, good things come to those who wait. Remember MON throwing in a brand new defence, bar one, to the biggest game of our season against the blue noses? Didn't turn out all that bad, nor for the rest of the season. I thought we could have learned a lesson or two from that when it comes to Martin and his last minute dealings. P.s Anyone ever told you that you have a 'Jekyll and Hide' personality?

Comment 124, made on July 29, 2010 at 10.54 am

Luckynumber7 said:

... Petrov, our captain, to Liverpool? No chance. Next.

Comment 125, made on July 29, 2010 at 10.56 am

Villa_Chris said:

... Aston Villa are the confirmed favourites to land Manchester City midfielder Stephen Ireland however it is not known whether the playmaker will be part of any deal involving James Milner leaving Villa Park. Confirmed?? By who? Where? Who else cannot wait for the transfer window to shut?

Comment 126, made on July 29, 2010 at 10.58 am

Villa_Chris said:

... http://www.birminghammail.net/...-26952448/ Interesting comments from Petrov regarding MON's thoughts of fringe players and having a smaller squad.

Comment 127, made on July 29, 2010 at 11.01 am

vogra. said:

... Lol..opps..i'm thinking of the wrong player are'nt I......

Comment 128, made on July 29, 2010 at 11.02 am

Chiefy said:

... Taglor - nurse !?!?! Respect i work in healthcare nothing as important you, in management, i would never have had you down as a nurse! You ever wanna a pint before a game i will buy you one with pleasure

Comment 129, made on July 29, 2010 at 11.21 am

VillaDude said:

... Reports are Luke Young transfer has collapsed.. Expect him to stick around for 3 more years!..who offered him 40k a week on 5 year contract? No wonder MON is not in charge of negotiationg fees and contracts no more..

Comment 130, made on July 29, 2010 at 11.24 am

Villa_Chris said:

... Premier League clubs prepare bids for former Gunner Hleb as Barcelona seek quick sale Could be a great signing for the Villa.

Comment 131, made on July 29, 2010 at 11.25 am

Chiefy said:

... MON remanissing about celtic on skysports ! Hasn't he got anything better to do?

Comment 132, made on July 29, 2010 at 11.31 am

Carlos is a centre back!! said:

... Good Villadude. Maybe Randy will force MON to play him!! :0) I seriously think our squad only needs tweaking and the whole squad to be used and we would be a real force. Out- Sidwell - 3mill Reo - 3mill Osbourne - 1mill Salifou - 1mill Carew - 2mill Heskey - 2mill In- McGeady - 8mill Flamini - 5mill Keane - 8mill Huntelar - 10mill Great 22 man squad with competiton in every position. If someone losing form or has a slight niggle, they're replaced. Fridel/Guzan L Young/Beye Dunne/Cueller/Davies/Collins Warnock/Shorey A Young/McGeady/Downing/Albrighton Flamini/Milner/Petrov/Delph Gabby/Keane/Huntelar/Fonz All other younsters go out on loan. All transfer targets are realistic and achiveable. Net spend of 20mill.

Comment 133, made on July 29, 2010 at 11.38 am

Chiefy said:

... McGeady travelled to portugal didn't play was not named on bench, who else is in portugal? Could he be signing?

Comment 134, made on July 29, 2010 at 11.50 am

Villa_Chris said:

... Carlos, I'm sorry but selling Carew would be plain stupid.

Comment 135, made on July 29, 2010 at 11.55 am

Carlos is a centre back!! said:

... Why Villa-chris if we replace him with someone younger and better? If we can't, I agree we need to keep him, but I think there's much better out there. He's too injury prone and has too many off days for my liking. Is world class on his day but those days only happen about 4 times every season.

Comment 136, made on July 29, 2010 at 11.58 am

VillaDude said:

... Carew is our only real goal threat at Villa, I can't see us replacing him with anyone better.. Gabby goes missing far too often, and has long spells without scoring. Also is shocking at one on ones with the keeper. Not a natural finisher... Heskey, less said the better... Fonz is still learning and will be ready in a season. We will struggle to break teams down a hell of a lot more if we sell Carew...

Comment 137, made on July 29, 2010 at 12.02 pm

taglor said:

... Hey Villa-Chris yep I admit that I do tend to see things black and white although I am working on being more reasonable, ultimately it makes me a passionate creative type with a skewed world logic and feelings of isolation, but only in cyber world. I manage to function fairly well in the real world, almost like hannibal lecter, just enough acting to deceive and let people think im human lol Chiefy, I will most probably take you up on that mate Now you may understand my tired angry demeanor, always fighting a losing battle etc lol

Comment 138, made on July 29, 2010 at 12.03 pm

Andy said:

... MON remanissing about celtic on skysports ! Hasn't he got anything better to do? It's a bit like those on here blogging, instead of working. I'm self employed I may just get in touch taglor. Not because I need the support, it happens to us all, but I just want to speak to the enigma..!

Comment 139, made on July 29, 2010 at 12.04 pm

Chiefy said:

... Taglor - it all makes sense now, and i completely understand Has no one picked on mcgeady? Lennon said he would play not even picked, mon going on about celtic, we are were mcgeady is? See where i am going coincidence?

Comment 140, made on July 29, 2010 at 12.14 pm

John Salter said:

... Chiefy - McGeady - Lennon at Celtic said he didnt play because of a back injury. Either he's lying and he's not moving or Villa could be signing an injured player! VillaDude - Didn't Gabby score an equal amount to John Carew last season? He's improved every year and will again this year!

Comment 141, made on July 29, 2010 at 12.14 pm

VillaDude said:

... John Salter - if you look at games to goal ratio you will see Carew has a much better record. I actually think I read a few months back that Carew has one of the best Goal/Game ratio for any villa striker ever! I really want Gabby to do well, but you see every time he misses some one on one chances he starts to doubt himself.

Comment 142, made on July 29, 2010 at 12.18 pm

mickey86 said:

... what would everyone think of these transfers - milner for ireland, onuha and 10million ash young for keane, jenas, bentley and £5million l young and petrov for ryan babbel 4 players out - 6 players in and £15million.

Comment 143, made on July 29, 2010 at 12.25 pm

Scott_Avfc said:

... i dont think we can let Ashley Young go for any price, he's a vital player for us, i dont see Petrov going to Liverpool either, then again we all know what O'Neill's like with transfers.

Comment 144, made on July 29, 2010 at 12.52 pm

Craigy1874 said:

... mickey86 said: ... what would everyone think of these transfers - milner for ireland, onuha and 10million ash young for keane, jenas, bentley and £5million l young and petrov for ryan babbel 4 players out - 6 players in and £15million. The first one is ok, the second two are ridiculous.

Comment 145, made on July 29, 2010 at 1.14 pm

Craigy1874 said:

... Chiefy said: ... Taglor - it all makes sense now, and i completely understand Has no one picked on mcgeady? Lennon said he would play not even picked, mon going on about celtic, we are were mcgeady is? See where i am going coincidence? Have you ever thought of working for the news of the world mate ?

Comment 146, made on July 29, 2010 at 1.15 pm

mikey18 said:

... It annoys me that some of our players are so undervalued by so called supporters! Carew, not only a legend, he is a game changer. Hes a big target man that even on an off day defenders hate to play against! Even on a off day if theres a decent cross anywhere near him he will bury. Hes only 30, so he's the same age as keane, only a much better striker. The ridiculous suggestion of swapping A. Young for Jenas Bentley and Keane, or even cashing in on A.Young is ignorant at best. He is one of the most consistent wingers in the prem, one of the focal points of the team and is one of the few players that actually seem happy at the club! Petrov is our skipper for a reason, he is are best footballer, he wins the ball keeps the ball and plays the ball. Im surprised at how under rated he is.

Comment 147, made on July 29, 2010 at 1.23 pm

Chiefy said:

... CRaigy - mi5 turned me down

Comment 148, made on July 29, 2010 at 1.30 pm

Craigy1874 said:

... Mikey18 you talk complete sense mate and i agree with everything you say. It also baffles me that people slag Petrov. Everyone wants a big name holding midfielder, what do they do, they win the ball then get rid of it. Although Petrov isn't necessarily the best ball winner, he very rarely loses the ball. I wish I could say that about more of our players.

Comment 149, made on July 29, 2010 at 1.36 pm

Craigy1874 said:

... Chiefy said: ... CRaigy - mi5 turned me down Thats a shame or u could have sent some spies to find out what is going on regarding transfers at villa !

Comment 150, made on July 29, 2010 at 1.37 pm

mickey86 said:

... i wasnt selling ashley young short - that deal values him at £25-£30million - if keane, bentley and jenas were villa players and i said swap them 3 plus £5million for ashley young then you would thing i was being rediculous. ashley young only looks good becasue hes in a team of boring average players. im not sayinghe is rubbish and id prefer us to keep him but that deal would represent good business to villa not tottenham.

Comment 151, made on July 29, 2010 at 3.03 pm

John Salter said:

... VillaDude - I don't think Villa can do without either Carew or Gabby at the moment. Both look fitter than they have forever and hopefully they'll both stay fit and get 20+ goals this season. You never know Emile may even get one or two as well

Comment 152, made on July 30, 2010 at 9.50 am

minky said:

... hi i am minky and i would like to say that villa are the BEST better than all the rest minky age 10

Comment 153, made on August 10, 2010 at 9.00 pm

Name

Email

Comment

smaller | bigger

Add Comment Preview