Thursday, 14 January 2010 13:38
So, the game is on. Well, they say it is on and going by the comments that we are getting fed, you've got to fancy it is on. Neither club are going to want to reschedule this one, so I think it is fair to say, it is on. The game is on. The semi-final is on. The first leg - the important one, is on.
In just under eight hours, we kick off and there is a buzz. A win tonight would be massive, but once again, I am not getting carried away. Blackburn are no mugs and they haven't eaten for two days so they are going to be up for this match.
But, the first leg away from home is the best we could have hoped for and the conditions are going to be the same for both teams, so it's all about who wants it more and when you get to this stage of any tournament, both teams want it.
Early Team News
Everyone is rested and everyone should be up for this game. The only players we can say for sure that will not be playing are Davies, Bouma and Salifou, although I expect a song for the latter judging by some of the comments we have seen in the earlier post today.
If we could put a bet on who would be playing, I'd put my money on Guzan, Warnock, Dunne, Cuellar, Young, Downing, Milner, Petrov, Young, Gabby and Heskey, but fortunately, you can't put a bet on this and I wouldn't be surprised if maybe Guzan didn't start and maybe Collins played and I also wouldn't be surprised if one of the younger players got a look in.
But, seeing as all players are rested, I wouldn't be surprised if the team I've put above is the team that starts. This is an important game.
Updates
So, with the match ahead of us, we will be updating the Twitter page, adding team news here as soon as we get it and if any of you are going and have a phone with a camera, by all means take a photo and email to site@thevillablog.co.uk and they will end up on this page after they have been approved.
Team News
Brad Guzan, Carlos Cuellar, Ricardo Dunne, James Collins, Stephen Warnock, Webcam Young, James Milner, Stan Petrov, DJ Downing, Emile Heskey and father of three Gabby Agbonlahor.
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Comments (282)
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Christian
said:
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... Our only concern has to be David Dunne. When they beat us at Ewood earlier this season he really tormented us, if we let him play then anything could happen. But, if we keep him quiet, I can see a 1-1 or maybe us stealing it. |
Chris Harper
said:
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...Our only concern has to be David Dunne. When they beat us at Ewood earlier this season he really tormented us, if we let him play then anything could happen. I never even realised he was playing against us in the FA Cup till he got subbed off! I'm hoping for one of those performances  2-1 Villa |
Mark
said:
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... Furthermore - I can't stop pishing myself at Billy Smart's FC - aka Liverpool. Their team is like inheriting a suitcase of cash containing £100 mil, only to find out later the notes are forgeries. |
Paul Theiss
said:
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... It will be a shame and rather cruel if Guzan doesn't start. I expect that he'll start. |
John Samuels
said:
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... Guzan, Young, Warnock, Cuellar, Dunne, Downing, YOung, Milner, Petrov, Heskey, Agbonlahor. Strongest team. Can't see any chances at the back during 90 mins barring injury, but I wouldn't be surprised to see Carew, Fonz, Delph, Reo, Marc and Sidwell as possible options for tired legs after about 70 mins. Is it just me or are Albrighton and Delfouneso really starting to become a part of this squad rather than just youngsters. They have blended well and do a good job when they come on. |
James Collins is the ginger Paolo Cesare Maldini
said:
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... I'd go with 5 across the midfield tonight, with Gabby up there on his own. Put Reo on Dunn and that will all but stop them playing. They usually only play 1 up top, so we need to match them in the middle. If we win that battle we leave tonight with at least a draw. 4-5-1 = 2-0 4-4-2 = 1-1 |
stephen
said:
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... Damian, didnt Albrighton come on against Liverpool, and didn't the fonz start our last match  |
Alex Glynn
said:
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... Yeah but that'a one bit of play for each. I don't think JPAs comment is fair quite yet. but hopefully soon! I want to see Delph a part of the team. |
Damian
said:
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... Chater1703 yes - but it is hardly making an impact - my view is they should have had more game time |
stephen
said:
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... yh but Damian asked the question and i answered it lol, he didnt say about what time they had on the pitch...although i'm sure his next comment will be about that  |
Tim Hillman
said:
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... I am loving the Liverpool demise!! How many of Liverpools team would you want in the Villa Team other than Torres and Gerrard! I can't think of any, maybe Benayoun. When was the last time Villa had a better team on paper than Liverpool!! We should beat Blackburn they are crap. The game will be Gritty with them going in hard against us trying to out muscle us, with a few yellow cards in the first 45mins. This is a big game for Heskey, If he can hold the ball up and play in Downing, Young and Gabby we should do these easily! |
John Samuels
said:
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... Damian, Albrighton played nigh on 15 mins against Pool which would have been a massive experience for the lad considering the nature of the game and what happened. Delph and Fonz started in the cup win against Blackburn, Delph played really well and Fonz scored. I think that trio is going to start featuring fairly heavily quite soon. Perhaps in the FA cup a little more regularly than in the league. All three might start against Brighton.  |
John Samuels
said:
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... Damian, I understand your view is that they should have had more game time, but your wrong. Next issue?  |
stephen
said:
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... i do agree Damian, i like the Fonz and do believe he will go far in his career, he has the pace of Gabby, but can control the ball far better, and i think is a better finisher..I would start him most games if Carew and Heskey aren't pulling their weight |
John Samuels
said:
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... Delfouneso is more than happy pushing for a place and working hard in training. Let him keep going. Two of our forwards are 30+, he'll start playing a lot more regularly next season, mark my words. |
Damian
said:
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... Juan Pablo Angel coming on for reo-coker in one match (albrighton) and playing in a match where 6 or 7 changes were made (delfouneso) is hardly the manager integrating them into the team |
John Samuels
said:
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...coming on for reo-coker in one match (albrighton) and playing in a match where 6 or 7 changes were made (delfouneso) is hardly the manager integrating them into the team What the hell is it then, because that's exactly what it seemed like to me. Honestly, read what you just posted, are you losing it? |
Martin Laursen
said:
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... I think that a loan deal would be great for Albrighton because even if one of our wingers is unavailable Milner will be put out wide with Reo/Delph/Sidwell coming in.He's 20 and the likes of Gabby were regulars at that age. |
John Samuels
said:
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... Bringing Marc on in a game where we are playing a huge team like Pool in what was a powderkeg atmosphere when the game was on a knife edge is for me a clear signal of intent from MoN. To not play him for the first half of the season and then drop him in like that suggests to me that we will be seeing more of the lad. I'm not saying they are first teamers or that they will be anytime soon, but they are fast becoming viable options who are ready to be blooded at the top level. The peace cup was a good introduction where they got a bit of silverware and the temptation would have been for them to get a little big headed. Well done to MoN for keeping them grounded and they've had to work very very hard for their performances since. They've been training and travelling with the first team since August and that is a valuable asset. Now they are beginning to get a little game time too. It is very important not to rush their development imo and I don't know why everyone is so keen to chuck them straight in at the deep end. I believe the trick is not to make it easy, but make it hard so that when they do get the chance they are so determined not to let it slip through their fingers that you get a whole different level of performance from them. I've been very impressed indeed with the way MoN has handled the young talent and don't really understand the criticism he recieves for this. |
John Samuels
said:
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...He's 20 and the likes of Gabby were regulars at that age. Out of necessity, not choice. Agbonlahors first season in the first team was under O'Leary and Ellis. We were potless and had Baros in the starting eleven. I think that introducing the youngsters slowly is a bit of a luxury really, unless you're Arsene Wenger who does things differently to pretty much every manager in world football. We have a good team anyway and we don't need them in the shop window for sale so introduce them gradually. They'll be better for it and might learn some values along the way. Look at Micah Richards. Sure, he's a talent, but he's also an arrogant gobshite. Chucked in the team at 17 and he thinks he's Charlie big spuds. I'd hate Fonz to have developed like that. The lad really seems to have a work ethic and some values and I believe that's because of role models like Emile, Gabby Stan and Martin O'Neill. |
Chris Harper
said:
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... Having them on the bench in front of other established players seems to indicate he's integrating them into the team. Stop being picky. |
John Samuels
said:
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...... So i've been told. I just look at them as human beings instead of football people and I try and put myself in the same position. It's good to try and be as broad minded as possible. I like to look at a situation from a few angles, round the sides and behind. A lot of people are short sighted unfortunately, but Damian talks a lot of sense really, i'm just ribbing him. ak, Churchill, Badger, Chiefy, Nan, Pancho, Holteend Paul etc all talk sense in their own ways. It's a really good place to read and post otherwise I wouldn't be here. When talking about the youngsters I just see three 19/20 year old lads who probably think they're ready for things as I did when I was that age and the reality is there is probably a lot they still need to learn. If the play till they're 33 they've still got 13 years of EPL football ahead of them. Why the rush? |
John Samuels
said:
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... Sorry, I just realised that I suggested that Chiefy talks sense.. Heskey Hat tricks, Salifou and Snoods are all he cares about at the moment! |
Sean
said:
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... I like the look of Delfouneso, Delph and Albrighton. When we compare the integration of these young players this season to last season, then we can say that they are integrated into the squad far more, and its not about game time, its contribution, not just goals and crosses and passes, but for example Delfouneso looks a far more mature player, runs, holding up the ball, positional sense and offering himself a bit more. I also think that the point that Albrighton is 20 and not involved as much as others like Gabby were at that age is irrelevant it all comes down to strength and maturity. Gabby is the exception due to blistering pace that the current crop havent got, although Delfounseo has pace and Gabby wasn't exactly weak when he came in, just not quite strong enough. Delph is going to be class and think if he can get a handful of PL games under his belt and a couple more FA cup games, were looking at someone who can make a huge impact in games next year. I think MON is showing signs that he has learnt, even with all his experience, that he needs to make a few more subs and changes, but perhaps he has started doing that because he has a better squad of players this year. Squad players like Delfouneso and Albrighton have certainly saved us spending 5-8mil on equiavlant squad players, and if they fulfil their potential, would save us as much as 20mil in transfer fees for the equivalent. |
John Samuels
said:
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... sdtw, Excellent points. I agree with everything you said. Certainly Gabby was a handful even when he could barely play because of his blistering pace. Our team is going to be full of excellent young talent very soon. Imagine Delph, Davies, Young, Delfouneso, Agbonlahor, Albrighton, Guzan all playing in the same side in a couple seasons time. Martin certainly has the right idea. Get the youngsters to grow together as a team and they'll be Villa boys through and through. |
Tim Hillman
said:
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... Don't get me wrong I think Delfounso looks a good prospect but I remember a certain Luke Moore was also going to be the next big thing but look what happened to him!! I personally think Delfounso should either be given games or be loaned to a Championship club where he can get a few goals and build some confidence. I agree that he is gaining experience from the older strikers but I bet he would love to be just playing competitive football. I can see his career going the same way as Craig Gardners. Warming the bench and playing in the lesser games. |
Martin Laursen
said:
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... JPA, Fair enough, there is still plenty of time, but I haven't seen Sidwell for example doing one single thing to help the team this season(while on the pitch anyway) and somehow he still features in most matches while Marc is rarely even on the bench. |
Nick
said:
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... If Delfounso was loaned out and Gabby got injured we would be left with just Carew & Heskey up front and I dont think that MON thinks that they can play together, actually neither do I. I think this shows how important Delfounso has become to the squad. |
Sean
said:
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... What I fail to understand is why people are so keen to rush these guys into the team when like you say they have at least 12 EPL seasons in them. People, as well as footballers, develop at different rates and at different stages of their career. What makes me even more perplexed is that there is a glaringly obvious example to all villa fans about late developers?! Gareth Barry! Although I was one of the first to say, even when he was 19, that he should be a centre midfielder, he didn't play in centre midfield regularly until he was 26? Thats 6 years older than the players I mentioned previously! Who knows, had GB been moved to the centre mid role earlier, we could have benefited, but I really dont think this is the case. Why he is worth 10mil plus and is a regular international and top PL centre mid in my opinion is because he had experience at full back and out wide. As a centre mid, these are your two main 'get out clauses' and options to give and receive passes from, as well as the fellow centre mid. I digress, but my point is at 23/24, reo-coker could develop into a better player. People develop at different rates...Rooney was in the team at 16 and looked threatening, hes at the top of his game at 23, but hes different. Sheringham, at least 28! before he was scoring regualrly at the top level! |
Tim Hillman
said:
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... NRG, Ashley Young could play up front if necessary and alot of people have been saying we should be buying a 20 goal a year striker. I personally think Delfounso should get a few games to show what he can do and not just be put on in the 88th minute. If he is just warming the bench he isn't going to develop. |
Nick
said:
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... Actually I would like to see Young given a chance upfront, I have a feeling that him & Gabby would work well together, they seem like good mates. |
Martin Laursen
said:
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... Glynnder, Has to be Guzan for me.But then, I'm one of the few that would have him before Friedel. |
John Samuels
said:
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... CSM, from what i've seen Fonz is twice the player and actually seems to score goals whenever he plays. He is a different calibre. Moore was only ever going to be bottom EPL or Champ striker. |
Chris Harper
said:
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...If he is just warming the bench he isn't going to develop. I don't agree fully, although I know where you're coming from. A young player's development will largely occur in training. He's training with Internationals and learning all the 'ins and outs' of the game from older, established players. This is priceless in terms of education. |
woody
said:
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...Carew & Heskey up front and I dont think that MON thinks that they can play together, I agree, i say loan delfounso to a premierleague or championship side to give him some experience and then maybe sell heskey, and definatly get in another striker. If Gabby gets injured and we have to pull in Delfounso i don't think we can rely on him to score the amount of goals we need to get us in to the top 5. We need someone more experienced like kenwyne jones or bent. |
Adrian Kilgallon
said:
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...Look at Micah Richards. Sure, he's a talent, but he's also an arrogant gobshite. Chucked in the team at 17 and he thinks he's Charlie big spuds. I'd hate Fonz to have developed like that. The lad really seems to have a work ethic and some values and I believe that's because of role models like Emile, Gabby Stan and Martin O'Neill I think our Ashley is going the same way and he needs a kick up the backside by MON. |
dominic elmer
said:
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... Guzan for me too. he's saved us in the cup this year so MON should stick with him. As for the youngsters I think they will have a big part to say in the second half of the season. would not be suprised to see them get a game against Brighton. As for tonight I think 2-1 to the the villa, Downing and Dunne and us to cruise to Wembley next week. UTV! |
Chris Harper
said:
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... To be fair ak_27, Ashley Young hasn't ever said he's one of the best, even when he was winning all the player of the month awards. Does he still hold the record? Was it 3 times in 1 calender year or something? |
Adrian Kilgallon
said:
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...What I fail to understand is why people are so keen to rush these guys into the team when like you say they have at least 12 EPL seasons in them. Because at 20 they really should be ready. How do you know that they can make the step up unless they get a chance? Hopefully from here on in for the rest of the season they will start being involved a lot more but so far they realy haven't been intregrated. He may be starting to hopefully ,as both have done well when given their oppertunities. But like i said at the age of 20 they are old enough. If an 18 year old is ready to be sent to Iraq then a 20 year old training to be a footballer all their lives should be ready at the age of 20. |
John Samuels
said:
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... ak, Ashley will be ok, if Albrighton keeps progressing as he has done his place in the side may not be as safe as it has been up to now. He'll come good again, and I don't think he's as bad as all that although I'd prefer it if he stopped getting booked for mouthing off to referees. |
Adrian Kilgallon
said:
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...Ashley Young hasn't ever said he's one of the best, even when he was winning all the player of the month awards No that true but his attitude and body language on the pitch over the last 12 months really irritates me. If I wasn't a Villa fan I would actually hate the guy. He is acting very cocky and since he has been like this his performances have deteriated. |
Adrian Kilgallon
said:
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...stopped getting booked for mouthing off to referees. Thats part of what im talking about. Also he is going head to head with players who dare tackle him. Now i really can't stand all that bull shit hard man act in a game where they know nobody is going to even put a finger on you. I think MON should really be bringing him aside and tell him to kop himself on a bit. I dop think its gone to his head a bit and since his crossing has all round game has gone backwards a good deal. |
keith
said:
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... mon is not stupid the youngsters will probably get their chance later in the season if top 4 is out of reach. then they can play competitive games without too much pressure |
Adrian Kilgallon
said:
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... sdtw84 the reason Barry became so versitile is that he was thrown in a very young age to learn his trade the only way you can really do it. And thats by playing first team football. How many games had he played by the age of 20? |
Chris Harper
said:
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...mon is not stupid the youngsters will probably get their chance later in the season if top 4 is out of reach Don't you mean 'when we're comfortably in 4th position'? |
Adrian Kilgallon
said:
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...I wonder if he will go head to head with Samba tonight after a bad tackle Samba would have to go on his knees. He is a beast of man. |
keith
said:
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... to be fair ak when barry was thrown in our expectation was pl survival not challenging top4 |
Alex Glynn
said:
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... I think since he realised he was something special ashley has basically stopped being special... And I'd love to see Guzan if we make the final, at least for the first half. |
VillaNick
said:
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... I fancy Delph, Fonz & Collins to start tonight. We were bullied against Blackbyrn earlier this season, so Delph and Collins need to get stuck in & Gabby & The Fonz can run at Blackburn's slow and awkward defence. I would take a 1-1 draw now. |
John Samuels
said:
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... ak, Barry played because we didn't have anyone else and to be fair he was pretty good compared to what was available. He played different positions because he obviously could and had some versatility because he is a good player. Also you forget he barely played in the latter days of O'Leary and was a bit of a forgotten man so I struggle to see your argument in that sense. It took O'Neill to get the best out of him. If we were potless and short of players i'm sure Albrighton and Fonz would be playing more often, but fortunately we have a big squad and aren't short of quality so we can bring them in nice and gradually. |
Stan Balaban
said:
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...orres out for six weeks, Gerrard for two and Benayoun for a month. Can't help but chuckle but if only Torres was out for when we played them! |
Adrian Kilgallon
said:
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...to be fair ak when barry was thrown in our expectation was pl survival not challenging top4 Our expectation has never been PL survival. Things were never that bad. We did have some poor seasons but even most of them were just mid table obsurity. I thought we finsihed well up the table when Barry started to play in the 3 man CB all those years ago. But again it should be about ability not age. It should be about bringing this ability through by trusting them(like Wenger and Fergie have done and like Moyes has done to lesser degree). I think MON so far at least has not shown any trust in youth that was at the club before he arrived. Im not saying he won't be up to now he hasn't. |
John Samuels
said:
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...I fancy Delph, Fonz & Collins to start tonight. I don't. Start with our strongest team and on form those three aren't in it...yet. |
Adrian Kilgallon
said:
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...Barry played because we didn't have anyone else Did we not go through 2 seasons without a right back in the club and not one youngster even came close to getting a few mins? Did MON not look to play Heskey as a CB rather then put Clarke in againest Fulham? How many times has he prefered to play NRC or Heskey(2 of the most unnatural wingers you could possibly ever imangine) as a winger rather then play Albighton? MON gets praise for giving youth a chance but SO FAR he has actually done the exact opposite. Hopefully he will start from here on in by using them as impact subs. |
Adrian Kilgallon
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...I don't. Start with our strongest team and on form those three aren't in it...yet I agree. I said i better agree with something for a change. |
Sean
said:
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... ak_27 Its a difficult one because I think players do need games as part of their development. You say 'the reason barry was so versatile'...I am not trying to be perdantic, but when was my argument about him being versatile (even though he is), what I probably didnt make clear was that he is an international quality CM. LB and LM he is not international quality, because like you said, he had lots of games by the time he was 20, but at CB and LB, and was still not international quality at either, then moved to LM and improved, but not international quality, then moved to CM at 26 and became international quality. Therefore, after all that game time as a young player, didnt come up to standard until 7 years after his debut and hundreds of games...therefore we can conclude that its not all about giving games to young players by a certain age, depends on the situation. I think Delfouneso needs some more games, which is likely considering we got 2 x 30+ strikers who are injury prone. Albrighton needs less games, you can tell by him frame that hes not quite strong enough yet and that he still has some strength to gain (like when you get your 'man strength' in boxing, theres not many world class boxers under 25 years of age because they still havent got all there strength) The difference is I suppose is that its a different era for Villa, is/was Barry better at any stage than Warnock at LB, Dunne/Collins/Davies/Cuellar at CB, Young/Downing at LM |
VillaNick
said:
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...I don't. Start with our strongest team and on form those three aren't in it...yet. Fonz scored last time out, (Heskey & Gabby didn't) Delph was outstanding against them last time and Collins needs a game IMO. We need to play our strongest team on the weekend otherwise we could fall way behind in the league. |
Sean
said:
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... ak_27 I do agree that MON could do better in bringing in youth players, i.e. NRC and Heskey on the wing? Heskey at CB?, but he did give Clark that game and NRC and Heskey on the wing was last season (correct me if I am wrong mate) when we didnt have a suitable youth alternative and they were only 'wingers' by name not by how they played, i.e. Gabby came out more wide right and NRC tucked in. Its not perfect how MON is bring youngsters in, he should do it a bit more in my opinion, but its not bad and I think what people like to see is that MON is stubborn but still making a bit of progress on the making subs and blooding youngsters front |
Adrian Kilgallon
said:
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...LB and LM he is not international quality Its funny as i think his best position is still LW (more as a left mid then a winger). Still think he was at his more influential there and he is not dominant in the CM. He gets away with that for England because of the quality midielders around him but i think City have already realised he is not as good a CM as many think. But he learned his trade on the pitch by playing againest other top professionals in competitive games. That 3/4 yaers extra expierance is bound to have helped him improve as a player. He is an intelligent player and that comes from playing first team football. Albrighton needs less games, you can tell by him frame that hes not quite strong enough yet and that he still has some strength to gain (like when you get your 'man strength' in boxing, theres not many world class boxers under 25 years of age because they still havent got all there strength) This is football not Rugby. Skill beats strength. He should be playing if he is good enough. If he can't get stronger by being in the gym for the last 2/3 years then he isn't going to get much stronger. So if he can't depend on size he will have to depend on using his brain to beat players and he needs time on the pitch to learn how to use his attributes to the greatest success. |
beh
said:
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... damien - Blackburn have n`t eaten for two days ?? Guzan starting is a good sign. Confidence in squad and all. I think we`ll win over the two legs but fully expect the usual semi-final sphincter challenge. Downing to have his best game since joining. |
Adrian Kilgallon
said:
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...Its not perfect how MON is bring youngsters in, he should do it a bit more in my opinion, but its not bad and I think what people like to see is that MON is stubborn but still making a bit of progress on the making subs and blooding youngsters front I think its obvious that the attribute that MON puts most mass in is physique. The only youth player really given a fair go since he took charge is Osbourne and the only reason i can think why he would try that useless guy so many times is down to his size. If Delfounso was built like Heskey he would be starting for us now regardless of his his age. Barry Bannan by all accounts is a very creative player but i fear we will never see this guy in a Villa shirt due to his size. Id be interested in seeing the stats on the youngters MON has brought into the club since he took charge. I doubt many are small, skillful players. |
Sean
said:
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... ak...yeah definitely not rugby! the brutalist boxing analogy was merely to point out that he can get stronger. I agree that you need to learn how to beat players in games, and he could do this in the championship on loan, but this needs even more strength...its the strength argument that under pins all the work that Glenn Hoddle is doing at his Spanish academy, 18 year olds get released, dwindle in the more physical lower leagues then retire. Someone as astute and as talented a man as Hoddle and his high profile football coach team believe this and its good enough for me. Skill does beat strength, totally agree! but it is a factor and he has to be exceptional to get in this eras villa side at his age. I dont know what the answer is for Albrighton to be honest, think we shall have this discussion at end of season or next xmas mate. As for Barry, my original point was that that extra 3/4 years experience made him a better midfielder as he can appreciate where and when full backs and wide men want the ball. He was more influential because compared to Hendrie and McCann in CM anyone would look influential, having said that I do know what you mean in a way, but my opinion is that hes a far better holding CM. Those 3 or 4 years he got because we had no other option. Now we have loads more options and better aspirations, we wont see younger players get the luxury of learning there trade for 3/4 years like barry did. |
Sean
said:
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... yeah Bannan is apparently very creative, seen him play a few times and looks promising...who was it by the way that sold Davis, he was that kind of player and if it was MON who sold him you may be on to something. although he probably wouldnt get in our team now. Strength or pace is what MON works on, which is a shame. I much prefer watchin La Liga, which is a far more superior league and better to watch because it more about skill and technique and not lumping the ball up front. I do think though that MONs investment in strength and pace (which overall probably costs less in transfer fees than skill), is the best way about things in this league. I think we have seen MON get us into the position with a developing style, we have slowly become a more skillful/fluid team each season which has got us into a position, or will get us in a position by the start of next season where we can look to add that 20mil skillful player. Spurs have bought that skill player every year for the passed 10 years and have only now got somewhere (largely because they have played 2 physical players in midfield and sacrificed the flair there directors seem to desire), although they can be good to watch |
Sean
said:
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... oh, osbourne is the worst player I have seen, ever, terrible, I just dont understand how he got a game, especially ahead of gardner, but your right, hes not fast or strong enough for MON. |
neil bangor
said:
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... Nobody finding it amusing that Harry Redknapp appears to have been a bit naughty? Made a voluntary statement today in a police station. MON is clean as a whistle. Ken Bates seems to like MON and Villa. JPA agrees with so much,what is the point of posting Ak must be on the happy pills. Dear help the blog if we get a result tonight Orgasms all round. Megan may even get a mention. Does Damo prefer Elvis to Megan ? UTV |
Sean
said:
|
... thats hilarious about Redknapp! UTV, I think we should go all out for a win tonight, get most of the job done tonight then I can start hatching a plan... |
Keith
said:
 |
... ak_27 "I think its obvious that the attribute that MON puts most mass in is physique" Not pace and skill then with signing players such as Ashley Young, James Milner, Fabian Delph and Stewart Downing? Or promoting players to the first team squad such as Gabby Agbonlahor, Marc Albrighton, Nathan Delfouneso and Barry Bannan? Anyway Redknapp getting what he deserves in my opinion. Describing Villa fans as morons because they were singing anout him being sent to prison. I wonder if that crossed his mind when answering questions in the local police station today? Who is the moron? |
kieron
said:
 |
... Come on you Villa boys! So looking forward to this game tonight, the Mrs is doing me a Curry for 7.30 just as I take in the build up and then shes off out with the girls as we kick off. So fridge stocked, and just me and the Villa boys, bliss!! |
Keith
said:
|
... Who was it that wanted us to sign Lucas Neill and had an argument with me when I said he was a trouble maker and not very good anyway? Just been shipped out by Everton to Galatasaray, I wonder why. Being a trouble maker and not been very good do you think? |
Dave
said:
 |
... Has been a good day so far,Twitcher in the shit,Liverpoo even deeper Think it will get even better tonight!! UTV |
Martin Laursen
said:
|
... sdtw84, I know what you are saying about Osbourne but I would actually take him before Sidwell. |
avfcbob
said:
 |
... Come on you Villa boys - I feel a 2 - 0 win tonight - Gabby and Emuile to do it and were half way there to winning this cup that has been good for us over the last 20 years Villa must play there strongest team as Blackburn are very poor quality for a EPL team and should be crushed by us Roll on a carnival atmosphere at Villa Park next Wednesday UTV |
Damian
said:
|
... Team News Brad Guzan, Carlos Cuellar, Ricardo Dunne, James Collins, Stephen Warnock, Webcam Young, James Milner, Stan Petrov, DJ Downing, Emile Heskey and father of three Gabby Agbonlahor. |
Benny
said:
 |
... It's strange about Sidwell..... He's been sub standard for us, but I remember him being fantastic in Reading's 1st year in the pl. He dominated Barry and Petrov in both games against us. I think he stopped taking responsibility at Chelsea... When he was at Reading, he was their talisman and inspired the team....for us, he shirks responsibility and doesn't want the ball. |
heskeyshead
said:
 |
... ROVERS: Robinson, Jacobsen, Samba, Nelsen, Emerton, Dunn, Pedersen, Nzunzi, Kalinic, Salgado, Chimbonda. |
jimmyavfc
said:
 |
... nervous walking around has started...cant sit still, the game must be near! Come on villa!! 2-1 win, i can feel it!! ill make it to wembley if i have to walk on water from eire!! |
Alex Glynn
said:
|
... i'm sorry but they're just not getting past the defense with collins cuellar and dunne. thats crazy man, shame about luke. though |
Alex Glynn
said:
|
... definitely. I'm gonna be praying like crazy for an amazing display. Do we know our bench yet? |
Damian
said:
|
... the bench: Reo-Coker, Sidwell, Beye, Carew, Young, Delph, Friedel no space for defloneso or albrighton - Juan Pablo Angel - i bet they are feeling part of the squad tonight |
Alex Glynn
said:
|
... bad subs, would actually have liked one of those two damo. Or rooney to play back-up goalie, he's leaving man u anyway... |
Alex Glynn
said:
|
... http://iraqgoals.net/ch1.html maybe that'll show it later? A funny coloured screen atm it seems. I'll be watching Sky Sports 1. And gutted I can't enter the Arse competition as i can't go :/ |
Alex Glynn
said:
|
... btw if anyone wants a giggle to relieve pre match nerves, typical bloody british. We can't just be happy can we: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/8459746.stm |
stephen
said:
|
... basically said he wasn't a very good manager, and didnt have any good memories while DOL was there (he said thanx for signing me, but apart from that your a rubbish manager ) |
Mike Carter
said:
 |
... I like the decision to bench Luke. He's had a subpar run in recent games and it gives Collins a chance to shine again. |
Damian
said:
|
... nice. i like laursen and he is saying/doing all the right things at the moment. top bloke |
EL Deano
said:
 |
... graymo take a bow son what a stream kid, the rovers support is utter willy dribble, th rovers return their all watching jack duckworth in corrie, emile heskey makes me cry bring back El Deano |
fastbackace
said:
 |
... hey damian... i wouldve paid 12 mil just for that goal... so has milner proved that price tag wrong yet? |
Leroy
said:
 |
... can i please have a stream lads.....anything not named villastreams or iraq goals Thanks in advance!! |
fastbackace
said:
|
... and ash is just waiting on the wings when he should be playing defense. someone kick that kid. |
Lee Jelley
said:
 |
... Try here for streams: http://www.myp2p.eu/broadcast.php?matchid=61935&part=sports |
heskeyshead
said:
|
... good movement all around from villa, keeping possession and very composed! at 0-1 though its always close and i wouldn't mind another goal to take back to VP. |
fastbackace
said:
|
... espn says 55% possession at almost half time. not bad. they also seem to have a live feed, but im not using it... |
fastbackace
said:
|
... thats 2 penalty's that should have happened. this ref is a joke.  good to be up by one, i want petrov to score soooo bad. |
dominic elmer
said:
|
... Great first half by villa. Been very impressed by Downing and Milner. We should of had 2 penalties. An early goal and we could be in for a rout. |
Cian Donaghy
said:
 |
... please anyone got a stream thats working?! hitlsperger how do you get the match from that link?! |
Adrian Kilgallon
said:
|
... Have been really impressed by our football tonight. Downing and especially Milner really combining great. We can put this tie to bed tonight. |
Michael
said:
 |
... last time villa were at this stage of the league cup we were thrashed by bolton, managed then by big sam allardyce. lets hope it isnt an omen |
Leroy
said:
|
... We are carving them up...just gotta put it beyond reach early in the second.... Must say that Blackburn´s supporters are a bit lousy, stadium is half empty. Hope we get a good crowd 2nd leg, even if we have a lead going in |
Simon
said:
 |
... Football as one famous pundit said is a funny old game (greavsy), but from what ive seen in the first half, it is Villas game to loose rather than BBs game to win. Good first goal, should have had a pen, robinson did well against Petrov and a clear 2nd pen for hand ball in last minute. Can we buy ticket for wembley now? |
Steve Badger
said:
 |
... Celtic, look here; http://www.vshare.tv/live/63830/SS1 You need Sopcast though. For about the 18th time, most of the links are here; http://www.myp2p.eu/index.php?part=home Bookmark it. |
Michael
said:
|
... theyve got southgate and cole in the studio? what channel is this on!! should have shearer and taylor!! |
Leroy
said:
|
... http://www.vshare.tv/live/63830/SS1 this is working well for me, Hitzlsperger gets the credit there... |
John Clark
said:
 |
... Defender lunges, leg in Gabby's path, of course he's going down, of course it's a penalty. What do you mean, "On another day, it might have gone the other way." Either his leg went across Gabby's path and made contact, or it didn't. It was never a dive. |
JG
said:
 |
... Celtic Villain - Watching on this link right now and its working great (please everyone, don't crash it....) http://showtime-live.webs.com/index.html What does everyone know about cheap tickets for the final? The lowest price I can see is about £350. Surely there must be some going cheaper somewhere...?!? |
graymo
said:
 |
...Celtic, look here; I'm pretty sure you don't need Sopcast. |
PAUL WARREN
said:
 |
... southgate is a judas penalty fluffing git, who went on "bigger & better things" at boro |
James
said:
 |
... Great 1st half. Looking forward to seeing the passing stats. As others have said Milner/Downing looks like a match made in heaven. Petrov great tonight given the room. So, let me get this straight now. At this moment in time... 1. We're on our way to Wembley. 2. Liverpool have imploded. 3. Old Trafford is up for sale. and, last but not least... 4. Harry's gonna do some time. Nice. |
JG
said:
|
... PS - someone have a word with Cuellar and tell him to stop wacking it up field and giving it away..... |
Steve Badger
said:
|
...of course it's a penalty. Totally disagree Kahoutek. Even my missus agreed he was falling before he was touched. I'd have sent him off, the cheating get. Bloody hate that. |
Steve Badger
said:
|
...Looking forward to seeing the passing stats. Doesn't really bother me Nan, as Blackburn are gash. |
Steve Badger
said:
|
...Never, Badger. Sorry. Look at the replay from behind. I have and it convinced me even more |
Cian Donaghy
said:
|
... thanks badger, but iv tried every single one of them and none of them work! so has anyone got a working stream then?! |
VillaDude
said:
 |
... If we had a top notch striker we would be 3 up hope these chances don't cost us gabby hid behind samba |
John Clark
said:
|
... After seeing Clattenburg miss the handball in the area, I'm going to go with my eyes. |
Steve Badger
said:
|
... That one is working mate, I'm watching it now. Sopcast via Internet explorer. Firefox is no good for me. |
Mike Carter
said:
|
... Heskey is rubbish isn't he? I mean come on, let's be honest. Even when he's playing "well", he still isn't very good. He must be the only striker in the world without one good striking attribute. He contributes so little over the course of 90 minutes it's shocking. ..oh wait, "link-up play". Forgot about that. "Holding the ball up", that's an important one too. Rubbish. Give me a striker who'll create chances and bloody well test the keeper every now and then. Ship this guy out and get someone of our calibre in. |
Steve Badger
said:
|
...After seeing Clattenburg miss the handball in the area, I'm going to go with my eyes. He got that one wrong mate, agreed, but I thought one of ours had headed it. Non of our players appealed that much at first. Heskey is rubbish isn't he? Award for understatement of the year goes to Viva. We talk about Gabby's first touch and lack of strength (last season)? Total donkey, to say the least, imo. |
Leroy
said:
|
... Spot on viva... The game should be out of reach if we had a striker with the killer instinct....players like Drogba etc are taking shots from anywhere inside the half, let alone sticking a bloody leg out for a picture perfect cross.... Come on and lets have a clinical finisher |
Cian Donaghy
said:
|
... i could not be more fustrated that i cannot watch this match. is there a particular search engine or do i need to join something to work vshare, its driving me nuts |
Michael
said:
|
... blackburn may have a shit team but they can still brng benni mcarthy on who is just as big a threat than any of the villa strikers. |
PAUL WARREN
said:
|
... what's worrying is that, yes we've opened them up mant times, but we aint got no one to finish it. If are current strikers are this enept at finishing why isn't fonz on? |
HT Sweden
said:
 |
... You just cant afford missing chanses in the long run like webcams.Youll regrett it. |
Cian Donaghy
said:
|
... thanks for your help badger and leroy, but i give up... i put it down to my pathetic internet connection |
Steve Badger
said:
|
... Gutless going 4-5-1 against this shit, imo. Now who looks more likely to score? Under the bleeding cosh again  |
VillaDude
said:
|
... Every fan and newspaper knows we need a striker but mon thinks the sun shines out of emile and gab |
fastbackace
said:
|
... theres still ten min left in the game and were kicking the ball away... shakes head. |
Leroy
said:
|
... Celtic - if not for tonight then next time....http://www.sopcast.com/download/ then the link.... |
Steve Badger
said:
|
...If are current strikers are this enept at finishing why isn't fonz on? Good question. We've pissed this game overall, but lack any attacking threat whatsoever from the forwards. Heskey? (shakes head). They're shit and look much more dangerous when attacking, imo. |
heskeyshead
said:
|
... they are the home team playing in a cup tie! only 2 teams have beat them at home this year, chill out! we have defended well and should have at least another goal. |
Steve Badger
said:
|
...they are the home team playing in a cup tie! only 2 teams have beat them at home this year, chill out! we have defended well and should have at least another goal. They are shit mate and would have shipped loads against a team with any decent threat tonight. Man city was no fluke. |
VillaDude
said:
|
... Well done lads. Milner was immense. Anyone notice damo not slagging him off now. We were unlucky with the ref. But Blackburn had 3/4 good chances aswell. 1-0 is a good result. |
neil bangor
said:
|
... Have not read blog. Great defending by us. Great counter attacking. Hope you silly boys weren't too negative when Sidders came on. It was a great result. UTV |
stephen
said:
|
... anyone notice how guzan always has two blackburn players standing on him from corners thought it was illegal to block the keeper |
rocky marciano
said:
 |
...[/Milner was immense. Anyone notice damo not slagging him off now. |
Steve Oldaker
said:
 |
... cuellar outstanding again, milner and petrov too. well done boys, we need to start putting our chances away tho hope oneil changes it round for west ham so the big boys will be ready for the 2 nd leg ! |
Stan Balaban
said:
|
...They are shit mate and would have shipped loads against a team with any decent threat tonight. Whilst I've got no idea why we looked a different team (again) in the second half, don't forget they dumped Chelsea out of the cup to be playing us. Squeeky bum at times when they hit the post but you can't argue with the fact we beat them with an away goal and clean sheet. UTV |
Steve Badger
said:
|
...Have you had a bad day? No worse than usual Nan. I just think they're the opposite of us. Crap midfield and an even worse defence. But a better attack than us. We dominated that game big time and should have won by more, simple. And they're one of the worst teams we've played this season, imo. but you can't argue with the fact we beat them with an away goal and clean sheet. Agreed. But I'll tell you what, if we had come away with only the draw, I'd have been absolutely fuming. |
rocky marciano
said:
|
... we`re solid at the back,we look very dangerous going forward we`re almost there, a decent striker and we are there.heskey is a turd on legs. |
Greg
said:
 |
... gabby is a class player, anyone who thinks he isnt doesnt know much about football, we do need an out an out striker to complimnet him though, he is an unbelievable supporting player with his pace, hes an a great asset to our team. rant over |
beh
said:
|
... Jobs a good `un Would love to see the fonz up with gabby now. He can hold it up, score and is pretty tidy too. Would like to have seen downing beat his man and have a pop. He had the chance to do that several times- instead he waited for the box to fill- and had to be pinpoint. Under orders i guess. Be a playmaker not an out and out winger. For a team chuggin` in 2nd gear - i`m a happy man. |
Steve Badger
said:
|
...taglor how did u get to use badgers login? I know But at the same time, you know I'm not normally like this either. They were gash mate and should have been put to the sword, big time. It's bloody Heskey that's set me off, I think. Like I said earlier, Heskey off, my dead nan on, would have been an improvement. How does this bloke get a game for us? And Sidwell instead of NRC? I absolutely despair. I love MON to bits but these two options amaze me. MON must have a magic third eye or something, because mine can't see it. I guess that's what you get when you promise not to slate one of the biggest POS's it's been my displeasure to see in a Villa shirt and can't hold it any longer. And Dam it feels good to come out. I'm totally proud to stand up and say; HESKEY, YOU'RE F*CKING SHITE !!!! It could just be something to do with my first beers for a good few days, of course |
Graymo
said:
|
... Does anyone else feel that Gabby needs to do more when he hasn't got the ball. He seems to half heartedly go into challenges (especially when the balls in the air). Attacking wise he's pretty good but he doesn't have the confidence to take players on. You'll notice that most of the time he takes the ball out wide or simply holds the ball up. He's only really effective when the ball is played through in front of him when he has the opportunity to race defenders to the ball. For this reason I think the Fonz might have more variety to his game and potentially be a better rounded player in the future. |
Alex Glynn
said:
|
... I don't think I agree, if someone else is in the area and gabbys going for the challenge he'll get it, he's fast and strong and I think he goes in with all his heart [to most of them] |
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