The Resurgence of Gabby Agbonlahor

Whatever you say about this season, it is certainly not without positives. We’ve seen young Barry Bannan really take his chance in the first team with a string of good performances. We’ve seen Dunne return to the level we saw from him 2 years ago, again with a series of committed and driven performances. We’ve seen Shay Given excel between the sticks with some excellent goalkeeping. But the biggest positive this season has been the resurgence of one Gabriel Imuetinyan Agbonlahor.



Gabby starting to silence critics



To say Gabby had a poor season last year is underestimating it somewhat. Just 3 league goals in the campaign, for a striker that’s poor, especially a striker of Gabby’s qualities. Admittedly being on the wing and being expected to provide for the other players isn’t quite to Gabby’s strength but even so. He knows as well as we do that that is his worst season with us. Although he still managed to score some vital goals, such as the winner at West Ham which effectively eased Villa's relegation fears.

Gabby celebrates the winner at West Ham

Many people have told me, and other Villa fans how poor Gabby is as a player, how overrated he is, how he has little or no technical ability whatsoever, and how calls for him to be in the England squad are ludicrous. I disagree. On all four.

Firstly he isn’t a poor player. Poor players do not fight through a PL teams academy, establish themselves in the first team there, and then become the clubs current longest servant by dint of being poor. Especially not at an established Premier League club like Aston Villa. Another remarkable feat he is close to achieving is the mark of 61 Premier League goals, which is 1 more than one of the best strikers to ever be at Villa, Dwight Yorke, achieved. Gabby is currently on 53 league goals, and at this rate, Yorke’s record will be broken soon. He’s not a goalscoring phenom, but he is a good goalscorer, and if he is a poor player, I’m sorry, there’s not much hope for a lot of other players.

Secondly, the issue over him being overrated – in my opinion, he is completely the opposite. Very underrated. Players seem to feat playing him more than fans do. And understandably so, even after bulking up he is frighteningly fast. John Terry, for all I do not like him, summed it up for me. “He’s a nightmare to play against” said the Chelsea captain. And I agree, I can see why Terry thinks that, the last thing a central defender wants is a lightning-fast striker running at him. Nemanja Vidic can also attest to this, with a series of performances against Gabby where he has been lucky to stay on the field, most notably in the 2010 League Cup final. If not for the (in many frustrated Villa fans eyes) amount of extra protection Vidic seems to get from officials against us, he would be sent off a good amount. Similar to when Torres was at Liverpool, Vidic always seemed to vastly struggle and would end up being dismissed. Also considering how many say Gabby is poor, how does that make him overrated? Surely that would be if the general consensus was that he was a cracking player and he wasn’t? Cracking player, maybe not. Overrated, not. Dangerous player, certainly.

Vidic struggles to come to terms with Gabby

No technical ability – this is one I particularly take issue with. Let me just establish, Gabby is not a flair player. His strength his running and causing chaos between the defenders. He likes to get his head down and hare through the opposition half. Gabby, in the general opinion of Villa fans, is a lovable, but slightly dim person. He’s a great bloke for us, but not massively intelligent. (not that he is expected to be – he’s a footballer) He’s not Messi, he’s not Di Maria, he’s not Young, he’s not Silva, he’s not x, y or z player either. His technical aspect of his game isn’t his main strength. But he is certainly not lacking greatly in it, as anyone to visit Villa Park for our league wins will corroborate. His goal against Blackburn was a work of art but it generally was ignored by the media. (which we expect, we aren’t a big club) He tied Michel Salgado in knots before cutting inside and curling an absolute pearl around Robinson and in from out wide. The fact it was his 50^th league goal of his Villa career just made it that bit sweeter. Against Wigan he generally ran the game (aided and abetted by Bannan) and constantly tore Wigan “a new one” with clever running and lovely angled shots, which would surely have been a hat-trick and then some had Al-Habsi not had a tremendous game in goal. One of my favourites was when he was at a very sharp angle to the goal almost at the byline, swivelling and sending in a shot which Al-Habsi just about kept out. He has ability in those feet. Not a silly amount, but he’s got enough.

Gabby celebrates his landmark 50th goal vs. Blackburn

Lastly I disagree with the opinions of those who state he is not good enough for England. I’m sorry, but if Andy Carroll (who recently scored his first league goal for 12 hours, and has not impressed for Liverpool in his time there) is worthy of a call up, then Gabby is more than worthy. In my opinion, the four fit, on-form England strikers would consist of Rooney, Gabby, Andy Johnson and Daniel Sturridge, all of whom are showing excellent levels of confidence in front of goal. It’s quite simple, if you’re good enough, you’re good enough. Also considering the amount of players that get into the England squad on their club quality such as Phil Jones and Cleverley, who talented as they are, were picked clearly on the fact they play for United, as for United they hadn’t yet shown a good level of consistency and performance over a good amount of time. Also the likes of Smalling (a centre back) picked to play ahead of Micah Richards (a right back – and IMO the best England have at the minute)  merely accentuate the point. Gabby is certainly deserving of an England call-up, and his inclusion (and subsequent self-imposed exclusion from) in the squad is merited.

I don’t think there is a single Villa player at the club who is as consistently valued and cherished as Gabby by the fans – his scoring record in the Second City Derby may boost this, as well as being a local lad – but at this moment in time, he’s our most important player. He scores, he assists, and he busts a gut for Villa.

And as we’ve seen, he’s not just a man worthy of respect on the pitch, he is as well off it. To add to his lack of drinking (he’s teetotal) and his non-existent appearance in tabloid headlines for “nights out” (unlike some other England players) he also helps out with charity events when he can and recently donated out of his own pocket. I can’t help feeling he wants to help give back to the community, and fair play to him for doing so. And doing so quietly, he doesn’t really like to talk about donating. I think it’s fair to say you can tell the high esteem I hold Gabby in.

Gabby visiting Acorns with Albrighton, Bent, Cuellar and Delph

But even after all that is said and done, can Gabby maintain this form on the pitch? I think he can. His confidence is high, his speed to physicality ratio is as balanced as it’s ever been, and he’s got Bannan feeding him delicious passes down the wing and through the centre. If only Villa could get the wings working again for Bent’s benefit! If that happens and the current supply is also maintained (or improved) Villa could have one of the most frightening frontlines outside the top 4. A striker who is the king of poaching and the demon of speed with a penchant for having a shot. Whatever you think about Villa’s future, to say it is without any hope, is wrong.

 


 



We're Trying Without Wings

Ok, firstly apologies for the title/memories of appalling music - I had to find a snappy title. Secondly for the literary inaccuracy... we aren't literally ( (c) J. Redknapp) without wing(er)s, but sometimes it feels like we're playing with dead weights on the wing... anyway I digress.

Now, it’s not been an amazing start to the season… we could have done a lot better, but we could have done a lot worse. That discussion is not for this day. The key issue at the club right now, for me, is the lack of impact from the wing.

Last season was very promising for Albrighton, and with the departures of the entire (bar him) wing contingent, now was the season for him to really come to the fore and establish his place in the team – and unfortunately for him, and for us, he hasn’t.

 In fact whilst it looked last season like Barry Bannan’s Villa career may be slipping away and Albrighton’s taking off, there has been a dramatic reversal. All of a sudden, Barry is the magic man, and Albrighton’s introductions (as heard by myself against Newcastle and QPR, as well as 20 minutes into the game v Bolton) are being greeted with groans. And their respective performances on the pitch this season reflect this, with QPR for example, Albrighton’s contributions were giving away a silly free-kick, not squaring a ball across to the advancing Weimann for a good attempt on goal (Instead going for personal glory, failing spectacularly at that), and getting Armand Traore sent off.  Although to be fair he ddn’t have that many minutes on the pitch. Bannan’s was a sprightly performance with delightful passing, the touch of a magician at times, confidence on the ball, testing the keeper, and naturally, netting the penalty which gave Villa the lead.

Albrighton needs to snap out of the slump he’s in – it’s counter-productive for the club and for him. This is a task for Albrighton, McLeish, the staff and his teammates. Albrighton must be flowing with confidence again, like he was when he burst in last season. It is the worst possible timing for both wingers to be so short of form and confidence when Villa desperately need them to replace Young and Downing. This has also reflected on Bent, who  although has had a groin strain and not been 100%, he has had limited supply from said wingers, as well as not being up to standard this season. So Charles, Marc, please snap out of it. Get into training early every week and just practice practice practice. Get yourselves into the right frame of mind, get smiles on faces, and for McGrath’s sake repay some of the fans who placed their faith in you with some very good, positive play (and maybe a few goals/assists) vs. Wigan. Should you both play.

On that note, Barry Bannan has been declared Villa’s Player of the Month, and richly deserved. Gabby Agbonlahor and Shay Given are the only two players for me who have been better than Bannan this season. Maybe Dunne as well.

Certainly things are not doom and gloom, but three points really really really is necessary this weekend, so PLEASE you Villa boys – go out there, put in a tremendous performance, win by a comfortable margin, and above all, give yourselves confidence before we head off to the Etihad Stadium/Eastlands/City of Manchester Stadium/whatever the hell it’s called, because we’re going to need to show our teeth when we play Man City. I want passion in that game. I want no fear from us whatsoever. I want the Man City players glancing uncomfortably at our players. I want Sergio Agüero saying “Richard Dunne!? FUCK THAT! I’m not going on the pitch! You can’t make me Roberto! What!? No! Look at him! I’m not going! Raarrgh!”. Above all, I don’t want a repeat of the shambles last year up there.

Anyway, Wigan first. Let’s break the habit of a lifetime and actually beat the mothers at home. Come on you lions! UTV.

Interview 92 - Aston Villa FC

Aston Villa, Birmingham, West MidlandsArch-Rivals: Birmingham City
Nickname: The Villans
Founded: 1874

Aston Villa

The quickfire interview was done with Ryan, @ryann_walsmley on Twitter. Follow him.

Q1.What do you think of the seemingly impending appointment of Alex McLeish?

1. F***ing underwhelmed to say the least. 

Q2. What expectations do you have of your club this year?


2. Not much in all honesty, but it depends on who the manager is. Somewhere between 8th and 11th is my guess, hopefully with an appearance at Wembley thrown in there.


Q3. Which match defined your team last season? 


3. I'd say the Chelsea away game was close to it, but when we beat Man City at home with Bent scoring the only goal on his debut was massive. The pure relief felt around the ground after that game was so evident. After that, we really started to push on. 


Q4. Who do you tip for relegation from your league? 


4. The obvious choices perhaps but Swansea, Norwich and QPR. 
I don't think that Swansea have enough fire power upfront despite signing Danny Graham, their away record in the Championship was hardly great nor do I think they have the defensive steel in their side unlike Norwich and QPR. 
Judging by Norwich's signings so far, they just seem to be making sure that they are ready for life in the Championship at the start of next season, but under Lambert, who knows. 
Under the stewardship of Neil Warnock, I think QPR will be a very tough side to break down, but the question remains if their owners are prepared to back the manager, without it though, I can't see them playing Premier League football for two consecutive years.


Q5. Which player would you realistically like to sign?


5. I'd love to see Milner back, but you said realistic, so I'll go with Kyle Walker, a player that really excites me. 


Q6. Which of your players will have a point to prove this season?


6. Dunne and Collins, if they're still here that is. And maybe Makoun.


Q7. Who are you most looking forward to playing?


7. I've never seen us play them before so I'll say Swansea.


Q8. What team do you hate playing? 


8. Was going to say Blues, but as it happens, we won't be playing them next season! I'll go with Stoke. Don't get me started on them.


Q9. What ground do you look forward to playing at most. (Away league games only!)


9. Soulless stadium but the DW. Been there 4 times now, and we've won on every occasion.


Q10. Do you look out for any other teams in the league? If so, which one(s)?


10. West Brom and Wolves, which is quite strange, seeing as the feeling is most definitely not mutual. I'll put it down to jealousy, haha.


Q11. Do you have any match superstitions?


11. Nah, not that type of person!


Q12. Sum up Aston Villa FC in three words.


12. At the moment? Sack of s***. (Inconsistent yet encapturing being the politer version.)


Q13. Favourite Villa player of all time?


13. Ian Taylor. Absolute hero. 




Q14. How will you fare in the cup competitions?


14. Dependant on the manager and where we are situated in the league. I reckon we'll be solidly mid-table, so a cup run could be on the cards, I hope.


Q15. Name three things you could improve to do with Villa. (Money excluded!)


15. Knock down the eyesore that is the North Stand, make the chips and curry sauce cheaper and a better atmosphere, it was like being in a morgue at some games last season.

McLeish confirmed as Villa manager.

This could be an utter disaster of an appointment. A man who has taken down the same side twice in 3 years, a man with a patchy transfer record, a man disliked by damn near all of Birmingham. But then again, this could be a decision we may celebrate in the future.

Lets hope eh!

Don't get me wrong, I didn't want McLeish, and he was not in my top 30 choices for manager. However, I am above all else, a supporter of Aston Villa Football Club, and despire how hard it is, I am going to get fully behind Eck. There's no point in wanting him out without giving him a chance - it isn't fair. However, the man will have to do a lot, and I do mean a lot, to win over most of the Villa faithful. Even if he did, there will be a knot of supporters who'll never want him as manager. But who knows what a supportive board and a few mil can do? He was criticised for his dour style, and I for one hate his style of football, but we've got Darren Bent, and for the moment, Stewart Downing and Marc Albrighton in our attack. With all due respect to Birmingham, a frontline of Larsson, Zigic and Jerome is hardly a fearsome attack. One thing I do commend him on is his defence organisation. 


Either way it is a strange appointment, and it shows a) not only does Randy have the strength of mind to appoint an unpopular manager, but b) McLeish has a set of balls on him to do this. 


We have a decent set of fixtures to start off the season, so let's hope Big 'Eck can get a few signings in and get the team firing. Hopefully this will be a successful appointment, and Villa can have a strong season.




UTV. VTID. Unleash McLeish.

Overreaction much? Keep the Faith.

Well I'm not going to lie, football fans are a weird bunch. Myself very much included. We watch 22 highly-paid men not related to us in any way charge round a field kicking a piece of polyurethane and poly vinylchloride at two sets of posts for fun, and can argue 'til the cows come home of the various results, standings and games to come.

But that's why football is so great. Some people are enthusiastic about every signing, managerial appointment and board change, and some are always underwhelmed. But one thing I have noticed is how much some people can overreact. Earlier today Roberto Martínez reaffirmed his commitment to Wigan Athletic and thus closing the door on rumours he would be the new Villa boss. (Which by the way, I am very impressed with the loyalty shown by Martínez, even if Mr. Whelan may have pressured him into doing so by his public remarks.)

This, however, has been taken to mean "Martínez has turned down the offered Villa job." He hasn't, he has not and was not offered the job. Cue hysteria from Villa fans and more specifically other team's fans who claim that "Villa have sunk lower" from this news, like Martínez was the last decent choice. He was certainly a candidate, and a decent one, but by no means was he necessarily Randy Lerner's top choice. Or the best name left for us to get.

Just who is Randy's man?

I fully trust in our chairman to make the correct appointment, even if it takes another week or two. Rushing into an appointment is often an unwise decision, and one I'd rather avoid, especially considering our last season of turmoil. I'm sure that the board have a list of managers who I would be very happy with ready to be interviewed or indeed keen to take over.

Either way, we can do nothing but sit back and watch. But whoever we appoint, I will back them and give them time, even if I don't personally like them or rate them. I don't like Andrés Iniesta personally but I would give my left kidney to see him playing for Villa now. I don't rate a lot of players, but if they came to Villa I wouldn't write them off straight away.

The correct managerial choice will be made, I'm sure of it.

In Randy We Trust. Keep the Faith.

Martínez, is it?

As you may or may not know, you probably do, Aston Villa are in the search for a new manager. Gérard Houllier has left the club, and the Villa board are going through the  options, but behind the scenes without letting the media know every last detail, so a certain Sports reporting news channel/website keep desperately announcing that "x is set to become manager of Villa" without any kind of proof, because they've got nothing off the club, so they're throwing their toys out of the pram.

Onto our latest rumour, one seemingly carrying a bit of weight behind it, considering the Wigan chairman Dave Whelan has allowed Martínez to hold talks with Villa.

Roberto Martínez Montoliu, Wigan Athletic manager.

 Now this is a story that has seemingly firmly divided the Villa support, I have heard the words "inexperienced", "too much too soon", and "unambitious" said, but I'm of the belief with the right backing he could do very well here. He motivates his players well, is friendly towards the media, fans and his own players, has had a good relationship with the chairman at both his previous posts, and likes to play football, he has passion, hunger and energy. Obviously this may be yet another smokescreen, and it may not be Martínez who is the new Villa manager... but if it is, I for one shall not be disappointed with that decision. He's got a lot to offer in my opinion.

Which kind of brings me onto my second point.

You cannot please everyone. If Villa went and pulled an elephant out of the hat by signing the dazzling young manager of Porto, André Villas-Boas, some, albeit very few, would be unhappy. But some Villa fans will never be happy with appointments as Villa were once the best team in the whole of Europe, and plenty saw that and feel it gives us a god-gven right to play at the top table again. Well, we don't. Those days are past and in the past they'll probably remain. We may never win the league again, that I'm afraid is relative to how footall is now - only those with huge financial backing will win the league. We can still play to the best of our abilities, and try and win as much as we can, but I cannot understand the attitude that "so and so isn't good enough for us" because as much as I'd like top class managers to want to come to Villa, they don't want to, nor are they likely to.

These are days in football with little patience, little loyalty, and lots of money. Our club has the first two but not really the third. We need to lose this quite vain opinion we're one of the Premier sides around. We are in the eyes of others, probably the 8th best side in England, despite our proud history. We do not need delusions of grandeur of our club. I am immensely proud to be a Villa fan despite all the kerfuffle over the past year - but even so. The sooner we realise the Hughes', Benítez', Coyle's, Moyes' and Martínez' of this world are the kind of managers that are our level now, the better. It doesn't mean we can't dream of these top class managers being at Villa Park, but we need to be less upset about going for a manager like Mr. Martínez.

VTID.