On the right trek
Since Martin O'Neill took the bench over, the club from Birmingham headed the right way and already in the second season they are a step away of their aim. O'Neill said upon his arrival that his aim is to bring Aston Villa a step away from the big four, and then join the Champions League contention. Last season Villans ended up sixth and if we are to judge by the past season, O'Neill could bring his side a step up this season.
Barry saga shadowed Villa's transfer campaign
The summer was in the sign of Gareth Barry, Aston Villa captain and whether he will stay or go to Liverpool. Although according to he press Arsenal and Liverpool were interested in Barry English international announced his demand for the transfer to the club that holds most trophies in England. Unfortunately for him but fortunately for fans, O'Neill and Villa management wanted to demonstrate the change of policy and that Aston Villa won't be the club that sells the best players at their prime. Barry is still in the team, at the moment though, but the price of 20 million pounds Aston Villa are asking from Reds is too high. At the same time O'Neill has done a great job on the market and brought several other back-ups that should boost this club at least a step up. The problem with the wings will probably be solved by Luke Young and Nicky Shorey, while the keepers Friedel and Guzman have solved another problem that gave a hard time to O'Neill and the fans last season. Sidwell arriving from Chelsea gave more options in the midfield to O'Neill, so it is clear that he has a much stronger team at his disposal than last year.
In
Guzan (Chivas), Friedel (Blackburn), Curtis Davies (WBA), Shorey (Reading), Luke Young (Middlesbrough), Sidwell (Chelsea)
Out
Moore (WBA), Sorensen (Stoke)
Quest for fifth
Aston Villa's aim in the upcoming season is taking over 5th place, qualification for UEFA Cup and showing everyone that they are the best team in England after the big four. Although O'Neill composed an excellent squad, we can't say that there are no problems. Barry is obviously not happy and the question is how the fans will react to the captain's lack of loyalty to the club. On the other hand, the biggest problem for O'Neill will be thin bench and inadequate replacements for A squad, especially because they will be playing in Europe too. That is why selling Barry to Liverpool might be the best solution for O'Neill who could reinforce the team with the money. No matter how the transfer saga ends, one thing is certain: with Tottenham, Aston Villa are certainly closest to approaching top 4. Although many predict that they can attack the big four, we think that it is too soon for that, but an UEFA Cup spot is seems realistic.
Our tip: Aston Villa to finish in top 6
Odds 3.20
Bookmaker: Bet365
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