Aston Villa double post-mortem: Sunderland and Manchester United

I say this is a sort of double post-mortem, because you are not going to get what a normal post-mortem gets, mostly because I am busy, but I've also looked at a few things and I have an opinion. Of that, you will not be surprised, but I also wanted to get it on the dubdubdub.

You see, I could copy and past links to newspaper sites that are publishing stories about us, but we all sort of know what they are saying and you would have read them already. Instead, just for these two matches, I'm going to post what I think are important points to factor in to how we beat Manchester United and Sunderland.

Now, first to Manchester United and for me, it was a game of two halves. The first, we actually had them on the back foot at times, chasing the ball. The second, was very much about holding on and countering. We did both jobs extremely well and I think it fair to say that everyone of us is happy with the performance.

But, did you see how we set ourselves up and did you see how we play? Yes, you did and we did almost the same last night. For the first half in both games it was almost a 4-4-1-1 with Heskey dropping back occasionally and getting involved but also acting as a channel to Gabby. It was nice and I think that suits Heskey.

But also, we are passing it about a lot more and that really does please me.

Against Spurs, a match I really wasn't happy about, we made a total of 230 passes. Not all of them were successful but for most of the game, we looked a little like Birmingham City when we went to them this season. They were more interested in not losing than winning and I think the same could be said with our match against Spurs.

But then we met Hull and we made 275 passes and won 3-0. We then played United and made 239 passes (okay, most in the first half, but still an improvement and when you consider what we did in the second, pretty impressive) and last night we beat Sunderland, with 250.

But, it isn't just about numbers, as I am told so often. We had out and out evidence last night. The first goal was a mix of controlled and intricate passing. Okay, not many passes but all very good and I don't think many players would have seen what Milner saw, but the moment of the match for me was when Webcam struck the post.

I don't know how many exactly, I just remember watching and thinking 'we're doing it'. Was it fifteen passes, maybe more, probably more, but it resulted in us slicing open the Sunderland midfield and defence and it was only a post that saved Sunderland.

Now, I know that passing is a thing I have at the moment but I did put the style of football we were playing down as a big factor for why I was struggling with confidence or as some have implied, my faith, but things are looking up. We might be only taking small steps but they are the first ones and the most important ones.

My views are not going to change overnight, much like they didn't change overnight from blind faith to sitting on the fence, but if we continue this trend, I'll be more than happy at the end of the season, because I would expect us to, if we continue to pass it about and then hopefully one day focus on possession as well as the passing, do better than last season.

But you all know I'd take 8th place if we were to lift some silverware, but watching the football get better helps and while seeing Milner in the middle, make a whole heap of difference is also very pleasing on the eye and if he scores another one or two like the one did last night, I've got a feeling there will be a special award coming to him at the end of the season.

Man of the Match Results

So, the last thing for me to do is tell you who won man of the match votes. For Manchester United it was Richard Dunner with 118 votes (23.2%) and for Sunderland last night and you won't be surprised by this, it went to James Milner with 208 votes (58.9%).

Comments (95)

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Chris Platt said:

... Bargain buy James Milner-has to be on the plane to SA

Comment 1, made on December 16, 2009 at 12.43 pm

neil57 said:

... Equally delighted. You can string as many lateral passes as you like, they go nowhere but frustrate the opponents. Our style is very direct and rapid, exciting and rewarding when it works. Damian, you must also believe that Carlos will stay, it makes sense. UTV

Comment 2, made on December 16, 2009 at 12.46 pm

Tjeiken said:

... We will beat stoke with this form on sunday, i'm so pleased at the moment and allready looking to beat arsenal

Comment 3, made on December 16, 2009 at 12.47 pm

Chris Platt said:

... Stoke we will beat, Arsenal I believe we can take as our record at the Emirates is excellent. It's the Liverpool game that worries mw as they will have a point to prove after we beat them at Anfield. Couple that with the fact there will only be 48 hours between the end of the Arsenal game and the beginning of that one, there could possibly be some tired legs, but then again adrenaline may take over

Comment 4, made on December 16, 2009 at 12.54 pm

kingfisher villa said:

... how many villa were at sunderland?,it look like only around 3/400 on sky

Comment 5, made on December 16, 2009 at 12.55 pm

Mike F said:

... Best eleven in a LONG time- need to keep it up UTV!

Comment 6, made on December 16, 2009 at 1.32 pm

VillaNick said:

... I heard a comment on the radio that Wolves could have had a chance at Man U, if they played a full strength side, as they lost to us on Saturday! Do the media really think Wolves & Villa could be mentioned in the same breath? It's just ill informed media biased again! At least SAF and the Chelsea Manager rate us, its the sports writers and pundits that can't get there head around it.

Comment 7, made on December 16, 2009 at 1.42 pm

Chris Platt said:

... With Milner showing what he has, Gabby finding the net, Warnock playing like a lion, Downing continues to get fitter and keeps playing well, A Young if he gets his head down and realizes he's not the star anymore, and Heskey being a favorite of Capello's. Could there be 6 Villians on the plane to SA? Celebrating a top 4 finish and a League Cup

Comment 8, made on December 16, 2009 at 1.45 pm

Alex Glynn said:

... Bargain buy Richard Dunne.... I *almost* feel sorry for Mark Hughes, but then I remember I really don't like him or City and I just fancy laughing in his face. We're still not passing as much as some of the others but it's a very good improvement. We are a beautiful team. I'm going to watch Chelsea v. Pompey at Stanford Bridge tonight, 4-0 to Pompey would really make the battle for top spot interesting, we can dream 'eh?

Comment 9, made on December 16, 2009 at 2.00 pm

beh said:

... Have to agree re: highlight of last. Move that culminated with A. young hitting the post. I know we`ve got a good chin, I know we`ve got a good punch, but when we can box aswell, well, the chest just swells dunnit! metaphor micky signing off.

Comment 10, made on December 16, 2009 at 2.12 pm

heskeyshead said:

... stoke are going to be anything but an easy win. they will come to villa park and fight for every ball and throw themselves at everything. They will be content with a point! and with villas first 11 having played two demanding games within 6 days will we have the squad or energy to match them and get a early goal to open them up.

Comment 11, made on December 16, 2009 at 2.20 pm

Simon said:

... Checked our standing compared to this time last year and i think we have improved by 1 point (32/31), but hopefully this time around we will not fade at the end as i feel we have a better squad and would have leant a lot from last year. Well I hope!!

Comment 12, made on December 16, 2009 at 2.20 pm

Andy Scarborough said:

... We float like a butterfly and sting like a bee! You forgot that bit beh (micky). Fear not chaps, we are unbeaten at the Emirates. A record which will last longer than our previous bad record at Old Trafford.

Comment 13, made on December 16, 2009 at 2.23 pm

Richard Smith said:

... I don't really care how many passes we have as long as we're winning. It doesn't matter how in my books, it just matters that we are. In terms of trophies or league positioning, I'd pick league positioning in the short term because it shows how much we've been winning. If we go out of a cup, it's just 1 loss and I know in the longer term, if we're getting good league places we're winning and in the long term we'll win plenty of cups.

Comment 14, made on December 16, 2009 at 2.24 pm

Richard Smith said:

... how many villa were at sunderland?,it look like only around 3/400 on sky I heard on the radio it was about 641? Decent turnout all the way up north just before christmas. I could hear them singing on the radio.

Comment 15, made on December 16, 2009 at 2.27 pm

kieran said:

... beh metaphorically Villa would have to be David Haye at the moment....Smart, slick and fast with a powerful punch. But still lightweight and inexperienced compared to the other heavyweight contenders.

Comment 16, made on December 16, 2009 at 2.31 pm

peter haworth said:

... Its good to see Heskey linking with the midfield and holding the ball up as he does for England,which gives other players breaking from midfield opportunities for goal,especially Milner.

Comment 17, made on December 16, 2009 at 2.40 pm

Paul Theiss said:

... United, Sunderland: What more can I say that others haven't said already? We've looked in fine form over the last several weeks. The Sunderland game was the second most important game that we've had up to this point in the season. (Liverpool was the most important because we needed a response following the Wigan debacle; otherwise, we might've risked an early season tailspin like Spurs last season.) Our ability to maintain the level of quality shown against United will have been a real boast to the squad. It suggests that we've turned the corner this season and can achieve some much-needed consistency. Cuellar: Oh der. I'm a bit worried about this Cuellar-to-Madrid rumor. You can tick all the boxes for why it would make sense. In addition to the personal connection with the City of the Madrid, Real desperately need a defender, and Cuellar isn't cup tied in the Champions League. Further, a few weeks ago, Cuellar said that he is hoping to make the World Cup squad (obviously) but that most of the players are on big sides like Real and Barca. He may see this as the move that assures his spot at the World Cup.

Comment 18, made on December 16, 2009 at 3.14 pm

WinsforVilla said:

... Last season we started well then faded. This season will be the reverse, started poorly and improved. I think that there's already proof of that and we all hope that is a genuine trend. It's probably too much to hope for a title, although stranger things have happened (e.g. Manure 1995). But, MON still owes me the silverware he ducked last season... and I'm waiting!!!!

Comment 19, made on December 16, 2009 at 3.17 pm

Mark said:

... The Villa dressing room must be buzzing. MON has produced a group of exciting players who have football as their priority. There reward is to be part of a stunning 'revolution' - winning games, cup runs and International selection, although I hope Cuellar doesn't get picked for Spain cos he's awesome. It is imperative that their mental strength, belief and work rate remains at 100%. No match is easy, but I think MON prepares them well for each game. A cheeky win against Stoke on Saturday will set us up nicely for the glamour bouts against Arsenal and Liverpool.

Comment 20, made on December 16, 2009 at 3.29 pm

Mike Carter said:

... Like I said in the other post, I don't want Cuellar to leave but if he does, we'll be well compensated. I'm talking - enough money to pretty much be able to afford any defender who fits the bill for Villa.

Comment 21, made on December 16, 2009 at 4.03 pm

robb david said:

... having watched the sunderland match again, i think the way we played was pretty good, we looked really solid in all respects. The only negative for me is the front two, We all know heskys faults, but since milner is in the centre, he is doing what he is good at creating space, and linking up the play, gabby does what he does, runs quickly on the shoulder of defenders. I think we lack that spark up front, and we also struggle to hold the ball up, i think we look better when young is up top with gabby out on the right, Im pretty sure in january this will be addressed, with a forward coming in, a Tevez/Arshavin type player, and hopefully the right funds will be made available so the right man comes in. Then our 4 attackers will be hesky, carew, gabby, and another. Hopefully our front line would then have pace, strength, height, skill, creativty and finishing, in any combination o'neill deams fit. Even if we dont bring anyone in, i think we could make top 4, but if vagner love/jovetic came in i think we would just about be nailed on for it. I would also like to say well done to blues, we all love to hate them and laugh at their crap stadium and rubbish fans, but i do like the derby day games, laughing at work collegues and it adds some spice to what would otherwise be a dull game agaisnt middlesborough, derby etc. Anyway putting 5 wins together is pretty awsome for any team, good to have two brum clubs doing well. As for wolves they can piss off back to the fizzy pop league with their small time manager, fans and team.

Comment 22, made on December 16, 2009 at 4.06 pm

GPalmer said:

... Bugger the passing stats - Arsenal went through a spell last season where they'd pass it a hundred times and end up back where they started. Confidence & concentration are what counts at the moment, and beating Sunderland & Man Utd away with no goals against counts for alot more of that than beating Bolton, Portsmouth & Hull did. It'd be just like last year's team to lose concentration against Stoke, so if we can keep it going with another win it'll prove the team's mindset is in great shape.

Comment 23, made on December 16, 2009 at 4.08 pm

Chris Platt said:

... I like viva don't want Carlos to leave, but if he does we are in a position to hold out for top money. If any deal was done in January MON could pretty much tell any club, weather its Madrid or anyone else what the price was or cash plus player exchange or sod off. We would have the upper hand in any transfer unless Carlos threw his toys out of the pram, which I don't think he would. Not so sure moving 6 months before the WC would do his chances much good. We've seen it all too often how long it takes players to adjust to their new club. If he was to go to Madrid, a couple of bad performances and bang he's on the bench or in the reserves. He be much better served to stay with us and continue putting in the performances he is. Obviously with the coverage he is now getting Vicente del Bosque can't help but know who he is, so will have his scouts appraised of the directions to Villa Park

Comment 24, made on December 16, 2009 at 4.15 pm

James said:

... I'm not sure what you're getting at with the passing numbers. They're all pretty much on a par, which actually backs up several people who've already commented that quality and damage infliction is the important factor, not number. Passes are the new 4-5-1.

Comment 25, made on December 16, 2009 at 4.48 pm

Daniel Wilson said:

... I've never been sure about the passes thing either, sure it looks pretty but I don't see why a string of 15-20 passes completing a curcuit of the pitch and half way round again would be to any real benefit other than winding up opposition fans. Not saying that the passing game is a waste of time, would just be interested in your opinion on it Damian. You might well be correct, we do seem a better team since we've started holding it more but I couldn't explain why, perhaps our new found form is just asthetic and really were the same old same old. Great bit of banter for anyone who fancies a laugh here... http://www.epltalk.com/ashley-...ment-87280 btw... Please feel free to join in and spread some happiness one and all

Comment 26, made on December 16, 2009 at 4.54 pm

bigjimvilla said:

... I think if you read the comments milner made when he scored that amazing goal you can see what downing has been told to do.He said that he got the ball out of his feet and thought he'd have a go.But he said he was praying he hit the target because downing was free and he would of given him a rollicking lol. I think MON has told downing to demand the ball and make sure the team gets it down and plays.Thats one of reasons weve improved so suddenly.

Comment 27, made on December 16, 2009 at 5.04 pm

James said:

... Milner and Downing make an obvious difference, but I also think Carew is a factor. An up for it and in form Carew is the EXTRA headache that creates space for our flair players. Sulky John just creates link play confusion and irritated whistle happy referees. Never though I'd say it, but I think we're better with Heskey. Gabby, Milner, Young and Petrov know where he'll be and what he'll do.

Comment 28, made on December 16, 2009 at 5.29 pm

Rod Bentley said:

... If Cuellar goes, and you could understand the personal reasons for him wanting to do so, we have Collins, Davies and Clark as potential replacements. Player swop - who would MON want? Carlos is only playing 'cos Collins was injured, and we looked pretty solid with Dunne & Collins as centrebacks. Collins is no worse a defender than Carlos and arguably a better distributor. £20m - 'money doesn't talk, it swears'

Comment 29, made on December 16, 2009 at 5.32 pm

John Clark said:

... Right, passing. While I don't necessarily care how we score as long as we do, I think a better passing side will allow us to kill off games, frustrate opponents, and exert a bit more control. If we can open up sides when they're packed in AND hit teams quickly on the counter...Well, that's the complete package the top teams boast. Given that we're now much more solid at the back and starting to exhibit a little bit of flair and control, opponents have much more to think about, and can't employ a simple strategy of negating the break without us having another option. So, while I've always said that it doesn't matter how we score, and 3-4 passes are much more efficient than 15 in terms of getting a goal, being able to do both is what will allow us to kick on.

Comment 30, made on December 16, 2009 at 5.38 pm

cockneyvillan said:

... Yes are passing has improved since downing come into the side, milner went to centre mid and hesky has started..and since sidwell has been dropped.. Maybe because we now have good players all over the pitch, or just that milner is a revelation in the middle or hesky has got the bit between his teeth?? I think its a mixture of all of these points, not just because of downing but the chemistry having him in the side has created , good players play better with better players ..link up together.. read each others play and at the moment we are looking a very good side!! Scoring goals and one of the best defences in the league ?? SOUNDS BLOODY GOOD TO ME!!

Comment 31, made on December 16, 2009 at 6.01 pm

Michael said:

... http://imgs.sapo.pt/sapovideo/...4hpC/mov/1 For anyone who didnt see Milners goal Enjoy. UTV!

Comment 32, made on December 16, 2009 at 6.35 pm

jerry said:

... Hey, Churchill, where are you? Some rhetoric, please. Neil, just tried to submit something to the boss but I can't get the'contact' thing to work. I'll keep trying. He may like it, he may not. The main topic isn't Villa but another favourite place I like to visit. Think 'bin-dipper' meltdown. If we win the next two matches, Stoke and woolworths, I shall be waxing lyrical.

Comment 33, made on December 16, 2009 at 7.04 pm

jerry said:

... Never though I'd say it, but I think we're better with Heskey. Gabby, Milner, Young and Petrov know where he'll be and what he'll do. Know how you feel. It's like desecrating a Bible or something. Heskey over Carew? I agree. But it's creepy alright.

Comment 34, made on December 16, 2009 at 7.18 pm

david said:

... Early on in the season it was clear that we were trying to pass the ball more but it was going backwards as much as forwards, fans were getting frustrated and shouting for us to get the ball forward faster. It is becoming clear that Mon is not interested in passing for passing's own sake. He's never lost sight of the fact that the objective is to get the ball forward and score goals. For this reason there's every chance that whilst our passing game will improve we may still have less of the possession. Does the number of passes actually count for much? Surely it's the effectiveness of the passes that matters. For much of Saturday's game, Utd were conducting a sort of passing masturbation....playing with themselves but with no meaningful end result. Hopefully recent games have shown that the new Villa will increasingly play the ball on the ground but not lose the forward thrusting play that can at times make us the most exciting team to watch.

Comment 35, made on December 16, 2009 at 7.48 pm

david mc gorrian said:

... 1-0 spuds ht

Comment 36, made on December 16, 2009 at 7.49 pm

david mc gorrian said:

... robbo said: For much of Saturday's game, Utd were conducting a sort of passing masturbation....playing with themselves but with no meaningful end result. mouthfull of beer all over the floor

Comment 37, made on December 16, 2009 at 7.52 pm

david said:

... Churchill, I've just had the same problem. I've been trying to send a message to Damian to say I have a spare ticket for Saturday's game and was going to ask if he wanted to give it away.

Comment 38, made on December 16, 2009 at 7.53 pm

jerry said:

... Churchill, I've just had the same problem. I've been trying to send a message to Damian to say I have a spare ticket for Saturday's game and was going to ask if he wanted to give it away. Thanks rob. At least I know the fault's not at my end. I could post what I've written as a comment but it's nearly 700 words long. Also, I think that everyone wants to talk about the Villa at the mo, (and why not?) and I'm a bit off topic.

Comment 39, made on December 16, 2009 at 8.06 pm

david mc gorrian said:

... churchill fire away dude it would be worth a read even if im not talking to you for failure to turn up for 2!! appointments

Comment 40, made on December 16, 2009 at 8.10 pm

david mc gorrian said:

... 2-0 spuds

Comment 41, made on December 16, 2009 at 8.13 pm

Damian said:

... i would love it for man city to lose in fact - get money on hughes to be the next to go ...

Comment 42, made on December 16, 2009 at 8.14 pm

Damian said:

... 2 nice loooong balls there from barry into the box from 50 yards out

Comment 43, made on December 16, 2009 at 8.15 pm

Hardie said:

... same at the moment the scores are pretty good for us, both chelsea and arsenal drawing, would of prefered a draw between man city and spurs but i would rather have spurs win than man city as they have a game in hand. liverpool game i would want them to win because its my second team as i was brought up a liverpool fan from my dad but switched to villa when iwas 6

Comment 44, made on December 16, 2009 at 8.17 pm

david mc gorrian said:

... hey damo i was having problems getting on site for some reason but changed to google chrome hence fixed.you watch the game and other latest scores chelsea and arsenal both drawing at the minute

Comment 45, made on December 16, 2009 at 8.18 pm

Damian said:

... limerick villain google chrome is excellent. you´ll probably notice it is faster browsing too. i´m watching spurs at the minute but switching between arsenal and chelsea

Comment 46, made on December 16, 2009 at 8.21 pm

david mc gorrian said:

... 2-1 chelsea. where u watching matches from?? ye way faster through chrome im watching spuds ss2

Comment 47, made on December 16, 2009 at 8.24 pm

kieran said:

... Chrome is brilliant just got it myself! Anybody mates with Barry on facebook?

Comment 48, made on December 16, 2009 at 8.37 pm

david mc gorrian said:

... martinoneillatemyhamster nah he asked me to be friends but i politely told him to fuv=ck off!!!

Comment 49, made on December 16, 2009 at 8.40 pm

kieran said:

... Mark Hughes is looking a worried sheepshagger

Comment 50, made on December 16, 2009 at 8.41 pm

david mc gorrian said:

... ft 1-1 burnley arsenal nice 1!!

Comment 51, made on December 16, 2009 at 8.41 pm

jerry said:

... churchill fire away dude it would be worth a read even if im not talking to you for failure to turn up for 2!! appointments Bought myself a set of clippers and my son does it. Sorry limerick. Anyway, last time I was in the area on Harvey's Quay, I asked a local where I could get my hair cut and she said "First on the right, Figaro's in Bedford Row, just round the corner. They're quite good there." I said thanks and went to walk off and she suddenly grabbed my arm and a wild terror gripped her face. "Listen", she screamed, "don't go near that mad feckin Villa fan at his shop. He'll have you in meat pies before you can say "Sweeney Todd". Terrible slander, I thought.

Comment 52, made on December 16, 2009 at 8.48 pm

Andy Scarborough said:

... Is that true? Burnley and Arse drew!! Yeee-Haw!! Happy Days

Comment 53, made on December 16, 2009 at 8.50 pm

kieran said:

... The gooners drew pinch me

Comment 54, made on December 16, 2009 at 8.54 pm

david mc gorrian said:

... Lmao churchill i actually worked for the guy that owns that shop and others around the town.Its a family buisiness the hacketts authentic butchers or sorry barbers.: P.S The stories arent true.Well there was this one guy but he was a blue nose and there was no body ever found,So innocent until proven otherwise

Comment 55, made on December 16, 2009 at 8.55 pm

kieran said:

... well done limerick. im getting my haircut at your place when im over next..number one all over

Comment 56, made on December 16, 2009 at 8.56 pm

david mc gorrian said:

... spuds looked very good tonight even if man city were below par.robbie keane not getting a look in anyone think be might be on way out even to us maybe??

Comment 57, made on December 16, 2009 at 9.06 pm

david mc gorrian said:

... oh ye barry was shite by the way

Comment 58, made on December 16, 2009 at 9.07 pm

kieran said:

... Have to say spuds looked good tonight. I think fourth is between us and then on current standings

Comment 59, made on December 16, 2009 at 9.18 pm

Mark said:

... limerick, I might be the only one not happy if Keane came to us. His best days are over and I think we could get better. I'd rather give the Fonz a run.

Comment 60, made on December 16, 2009 at 9.20 pm

VillaNick said:

... Barry has fast become the biggest waste of money in the last transfer window. He doesn't look right in a Man City shirt either, I think the owners of that club must be questioning a move in for Barry and out for Dunne. Hughes is not in O' Neill's class.

Comment 61, made on December 16, 2009 at 9.40 pm

david mc gorrian said:

... mostyn its funny but in a way i d kind of agree with ya

Comment 62, made on December 16, 2009 at 9.53 pm

david mc gorrian said:

... Was listening to ssn and the lads were saying about liverpool paying 20 million for aquilina or however its spelt and not playing him,got me thinking how come were not even using delph as a sub these days? has mon do you think watched him and maybe thought that hes not as good as he seemed to be or is he just biding his time.

Comment 63, made on December 16, 2009 at 9.56 pm

Rattus NorVillicus said:

... limerick villain said: ... Was listening to ssn and the lads were saying about liverpool paying 20 million for aquilina or however its spelt and not playing him,got me thinking how come were not even using delph as a sub these days? has mon do you think watched him and maybe thought that hes not as good as he seemed to be or is he just biding his time. Delph is one for the future Better to compare Aquilani with Downing. Both bought as injured. They don't have a clue what to do with Aquilani Put Downing in and our team starts to look like a Rolf Harris painting just as you start to see what it is. Awesome - move over red scum - the Villa are coming through.

Comment 64, made on December 16, 2009 at 10.15 pm

Stan Balaban said:

... Citeh fans are moaning about the lack of a leader on the pitch against the Spuds. I find it hilarious that they've got our former 'leader' for twice the price of the lionhearted Dunney Monster

Comment 65, made on December 16, 2009 at 10.19 pm

Stan Balaban said:

... Also anyone reckon a cheeky punt or loan move for Daniel Sturridge may be a good deal? Not getting a look in at Chelski.

Comment 66, made on December 16, 2009 at 10.20 pm

kevmcgrath77 said:

... well eff me stan! i`d second that. is that the brummy player, on citeh`s books, then shipped to the moscovites. he looked one of citehs best players last year. i wouldn`t consider the signing to be our answers to that 20 goal a season hero but`ll certainly fit in and blossom under Oneils close team. what about a cash plus player (in our favour) carlos cueller for one of there unwanted dutch stars

Comment 67, made on December 16, 2009 at 11.39 pm

Stuart Kinane said:

... Stan, i'm a big fan of Sturridge myself. I would wager a fair amount that MON went in for him in the summer. Just as much a talent as Delph if the reports are to be believed. However, with the African Nations Cup coming up, I think he could be partenering Anelka for Chelsea in januray and is unlikely to be put up for sale/loan. I've heard people say that he is the best English talent since Rooney and from the little i've seen, he looks very good. It seems good strikers are few and far between. I would have gone for Ashton if he hadn't got such a horrific injury (poor guy). I don't think the likes of Cole, Crouch etc are an improvement on what we have but the problem is, who else is there??? Bent is probably the closest thing there is to what we need but I think he is a poor man's option. Imagine Rooney in this Villa side? We would probably win the league!

Comment 68, made on December 17, 2009 at 2.13 am

Mark said:

... Stan, Sturridge fits the profile perfectly for Villa. We know we can't compete for the likes of Villa and Torres, but MON has the knack of getting the best out of players. As for Hughes, most of his players look poor value, and not because they're crap, they're just not being managed properly.

Comment 69, made on December 17, 2009 at 2.26 am

James said:

... I've got a problem. I woke up this morning with belief surging through my body. I see visions of Milner, Gabby, Downing and Ash charging at backpedalling defences. I see our backline like a rock, throwing their bodies in front of every shot and cross. I see big Brad filling the goal. Now this is going to sound a bit odd, but I'm almost hoping for a reality check in our next match. You know what I'm like if I get over-excited. So, I'm warning you, if this continues, I'm gonna start talking about Man U and Chelsea NOT Poo, Spuds and Arse.

Comment 70, made on December 17, 2009 at 6.54 am

Rattus NorVillicus said:

... Stan Balaban said: ... Citeh fans are moaning about the lack of a leader on the pitch against the Spuds. I find it hilarious that they've got our former 'leader' for twice the price of the lionhearted Dunney Monster Yes indeed, what a plonker that Hughes is. They should have built the team round Dunne, not pushed him out. We now have metal running through the spine of our team We are the future

Comment 71, made on December 17, 2009 at 6.56 am

VillaNick said:

... Poo, Spuds and Arse I dream of things like that too.

Comment 72, made on December 17, 2009 at 6.58 am

Rattus NorVillicus said:

... Nanwasafan: Scary isn't it As I said above, the team has been like a Rolf Harris painting. 'Do ya know what it is yet ?' Then Downing gets fit, Milner goes in the middle, and it's like MON knew what the full picture was all along. Some big games coming up though

Comment 73, made on December 17, 2009 at 7.00 am

neil57 said:

... Stewart Downing is like a young Stephen Gerrard. James Milner a young Frank Lampard. What would you give to have those two? We must sell none of our top players. Deep down, I think Carlos will stay. We all agree that we have a great team spirit right now. Even the bloggers are getting along famously Great to see Keef back, even with Dunne playing so well Now equal top defence with Chelsea and Man U. After sat, we will be top of those stats. We are top blockers by a mile. It is so good to watch those guys putting their bodies on the line. Good results last night. If we had three of B'ham's results against the small fry we would be top. MON made great work buying the back three. BTW, Lescott out for a while, Sparky for the sack? Gareth must have parrot sickness All he will have is a bigger bank balance It would be hilarious if they didn't even make top 6 New blog from Jerry coming up? UTV

Comment 74, made on December 17, 2009 at 7.24 am

Darragh McGeown said:

... Obviously CL football will be the major reward if we get 4th this year but how many people would love it just to rub Barry's face in it? In the good words of Kevin Keegan, 'I'd love it if we beat them'

Comment 75, made on December 17, 2009 at 8.14 am

PaulMcGrathsGoneAWOL said:

... Can anyone tell me if its possible to get tickets to the Stoke game online, Ive been trying to get some for a few weeks now but each time it says I have to have a booking history but Ive not bought them online before...

Comment 76, made on December 17, 2009 at 8.19 am

Adrian Kilgallon said:

... Stan, i'm a big fan of Sturridge myself. I would wager a fair amount that MON went in for him in the summer There was an article on this on 606 and a guy who said he was best mate with Sturridge uncle who also acts as his agent said they did meet Villa and Sturridge wanted to join as he is a Villa fan but they were shown no repsect by the way Villa went about the meeting compared to how Chelsea acted. Now at the time he didn't come accross as a Wum and seemed very legitimate but they said that MON didn't even turn up for the meeting and sent his number 2 whereas Chelsea had Kenyon and Ancelotti both there and that was a major reason he joined Chelsea as they felt Villa didn't really want him.

Comment 77, made on December 17, 2009 at 8.48 am

frem said:

... is cullar was to go to madrid, we should do a swap deal for vandaarvart.

Comment 78, made on December 17, 2009 at 9.09 am

VillaNick said:

... Morning all, am off to Sydney for 2 and a half weeks tonight! Any ideas on the Villa coverage in Oz???

Comment 79, made on December 17, 2009 at 9.15 am

frem said:

... mon and transfers. sturridge is a very good player and if villa got him he would only get better. mon did not even turn up for the meeting. thats wrong from oneill. defoe and dirra both top players, both once inside villa park both happy to come. mon would not pay the wages. just imagine where villa would be if defoe was up front. vandaarvart and sneijer, i dont even want to tell this story. point is we have been so so close to getting top players, but mon is the reason we did not end up with them. its very very very annoying.

Comment 80, made on December 17, 2009 at 9.23 am

Stan Balaban said:

... There was an article on this on 606 and a guy who said he was best mate with Sturridge uncle who also acts as his agent said they did meet Villa and Sturridge wanted to join as he is a Villa fan but they were shown no repsect by the way Villa went about the meeting compared to how Chelsea acted. Now at the time he didn't come accross as a Wum and seemed very legitimate but they said that MON didn't even turn up for the meeting and sent his number 2 whereas Chelsea had Kenyon and Ancelotti both there and that was a major reason he joined Chelsea as they felt Villa didn't really want him. I certainly hope we didn't miss out on Sturridge because of not showing the love, however how often do we hear players saying that they signed because of O'Neill and his ambition. With that I'm less inclined to believe the chap on 606.

Comment 81, made on December 17, 2009 at 9.24 am

frem said:

... just imagine : young dunne cullar warnock milner vandaarvart diarra young defoe sturridge reserve- downing, hesk gabi petrov collins

Comment 82, made on December 17, 2009 at 9.31 am

Stan Balaban said:

... Frem - if true then I'd be very annoyed too, but all the players mentioned (Sturridge, Defor, Diarra, VDV and Sneijder were only mentioned in the tabloids and on blogs. We have no idea well level of approach - if any - was actually made. We all know that MON works in mysterious ways in the transfer market and if he judges that a player is worth the money I'm sure that Randy would back him. Likewise if he thinks a player's salary would upset the spirit in the team then that's his call too.

Comment 83, made on December 17, 2009 at 9.34 am

neil57 said:

... Frem, MON will not be bribed easily. He is doing a fine job. Who else would you have? At mo he is 3rd behind SAF and Arsene, only due to length of tenure. He is best of rest by a long way. Harry prob 4th. Sparky on way out We do not need to pay these ridiculous wages. Is it doing Citeh any good? It appears Robinho was non existent last night. Look at the team spirit, it is worth more than 11 skilful headless chickens IMO.

Comment 84, made on December 17, 2009 at 9.36 am

Panos said:

... ...but mon is the reason we did not end up with them. its very very very annoying. Some of you, no matter how good we do, will never be happy. It's really annoying.

Comment 85, made on December 17, 2009 at 9.39 am

Chris Harper said:

... frem And MON is the reason why we're doing so well now...10 of the current starting 11 are his own signings. If I remember rightly, We were hailed as being very professional in the transfer market (leeds). Don't always believe everything you hear, 90% of the time its poppycock (for you JPA) or totally exaggerated. The transfer moaning has started already

Comment 86, made on December 17, 2009 at 9.43 am

frem said:

... panos are you saying you would not like the likes of defoe and vandarvaart in are team ?

Comment 87, made on December 17, 2009 at 9.44 am

frem said:

... im very happy about were we are but if we got defoe, vandarvaart and diarra were would we be now ?

Comment 88, made on December 17, 2009 at 9.53 am

Panos said:

... frem, No, I'm not saying that. But, at the same time, we don't know what really went on behind closed doors, and why mon didn't sign them. It's all speculation mate. We are doing really well, I suggest we sit back and enjoy it.

Comment 89, made on December 17, 2009 at 9.58 am

Doc said:

... I think Louise Taylor at The Guardian may just be reading some of my articles. http://www.guardian.co.uk/foot...ston-villa Smacked bottom for her then. Nice though, and I do agree with her. But then I would.

Comment 90, made on December 17, 2009 at 10.17 am

Adrian Kilgallon said:

... I somehow manged to find this old 606 link. The guys name is brummycop. He might just be a wum but he didn't really come accross as one. He says he is a close friend of the family and he states why Sturridge didn't join. http://www.bbc.co.uk/dna/606/F...98&show=50 I think is was more down to money then anything.

Comment 91, made on December 17, 2009 at 10.18 am

Darragh McGeown said:

... Defoe is an arrogant little p***k who would not work for the team and unsettle the other players. MON is picking his players brilliantly and we need to sit back and relax. Nothing big is coming in January except maybe a loan move.

Comment 92, made on December 17, 2009 at 10.29 am

Tom said:

... VillaNick Live in Korea mate and you can watch more villa games here on TV than you can back home. I have an aussie colleague and she says it's the same over there. My advice is get a hotel with ESPN and stay up late. Even if we kick off at the same time as another team, they'll show the game straight after the first is finished.

Comment 93, made on December 17, 2009 at 10.30 am

VillaNick said:

... Cheers tommy_villa, good to know. UTV

Comment 94, made on December 17, 2009 at 10.47 am

neil57 said:

... Read those two, AK. There was some vitriol in that lot No harm to Brummycop, Chelsea have loads of dough and filled the Sturridge with marlies. Good luck to him. Who is Gabby's brother as I have never heard of him? Gary Gardner sounds like a star in the making. This squad is becoming stronger each year. Life is good

Comment 95, made on December 17, 2009 at 10.53 am