Last season Aston Villa finished an embarrassing 16th
in the Barclays Premier League, narrowly avoiding relegation. Although there
have been recent turmoil’s within the club, namely the change in coaches and
Styllian Petrov’s succumb to illness, the fans still expected more. The days of
Martin O’Neill, Ashley Young and Martin Laursen now seem a distant memory. Yet, the appointment of Paul Lambert as manager
could prove to be the decision that saves this historic club.
During his hugely successful spell with Norwich, Lambert
demonstrated impeccable leadership qualities as well as gaining respect from
his players. These attributes are exactly what this current crop of players are
in need of.
When O’Neill controversially left four days before the
beginning of the season, it started a chain of unfortunate events within the
club. Both Gerard Houllier and Alex McLeish tried and failed to surpass the
impressive record set by their predecessor. More importantly, neither managers
were as popular with the fans as O’Neill was. The Northern Irishman was adored
in the midlands for the work and effort he had contributed to their beloved team.
Now with the right man in the dugout, Villa must revamp
their squad and lose some deadwood. The sale of James Coillins, Styllian Petrov’s
battle with leukaemia and Gabriel Abonlahor’s inconsistent form has disrupted
the spine of the squad.
In defence the young
Ghanaian Jonathan Mensah, Swansea’s Ashley Williams or West Ham’s James Tomkins
would all provide fresh legs and consistency in front of Shay Given.
Whereas, another West Ham player, Jack Collison, or Lyons
Kim Kallstrom would give the centre of midfield attacking guile.
While Gabriel Abonlahor shows glimpse of talent, a consistent
striker is needed to support Darren Bent upfront.
If the right players are signed the correct tactics
installed then greater things are predicted for Aston Villa. Lambert could well
be the man to lead the club away from danger and return them to the successes
of their past.
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