Heroes & Villains, the Aston Villa fanzine

Heroes & Villains => Match Threads & Player Ratings => Topic started by: Legion on October 31, 2011, 06:24:34 PM

Title: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Legion on October 31, 2011, 06:24:34 PM
4-0 Home win.

Bent 12, 34, 56
Agbonlahor 78
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: garyshawsknee on October 31, 2011, 06:28:21 PM
It's Halloween Legion, not April's Fool!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: luke25 on October 31, 2011, 06:37:44 PM
Villa 3-4 Norwich, Bent (25, 70), Petrov (71), Holt (3, 90+4), Hoolahan (88), Barnett (90)
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Monty on October 31, 2011, 06:38:27 PM
When the fixtures came out, people rather naturally looked at this game and would have thought 'home banker'. However, their form and style of play will have surely prompted a rethink, and our own ability to cope with pressure and cause problems ourselves has been brought into question. I think we'd do quite well to get something out of this, and it really could go in any direction.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Can Gana Be Bettered!?!? on October 31, 2011, 06:44:14 PM
I didn't even realise we were at home this Saturday until today, even though I have a season ticket, as I'd not been bothered to check the fixtures because I'm really finding it hard to care.

I'll go for a boring game that we just about manage to win.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Pete3206 on October 31, 2011, 06:54:55 PM
1-1

Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: The Laughing Policeman on October 31, 2011, 07:06:12 PM
3-2 to us after going 1-2 down.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Blackcountry Villa on October 31, 2011, 07:16:55 PM
2-2 and under 30,000 unless Norwich bring 3k+
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Chipsticks on October 31, 2011, 07:17:47 PM
1-1   Bent 28',  Holt 89'
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: gervilla on October 31, 2011, 07:20:30 PM
1-1
Gabby for us, Hoolahan for them.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: timeoutbigbar on October 31, 2011, 07:47:31 PM
Disappointing 1-1.  Collins with ours, erm....someone for them (I'm not sure I know any of their players).
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: TimTheVillain on October 31, 2011, 07:53:21 PM
3-1 Villa

N'Zog
Bent 2

Can't wait !
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Vanilla on October 31, 2011, 07:58:28 PM
Got to win it, as simple as that.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: TaxDodger on October 31, 2011, 08:31:04 PM
Must win game this. I'll go 2-1. Albrighton 89, Bent 90. Holt 24.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: CJ on October 31, 2011, 09:15:46 PM
Absolutely must win game and we will - 3-1.

As an aside, another thing I miss from the good old days is home one week, away the next. After Norwich it's a full month until the next game at VP - with Manure, 'The Mighty Reds YNWA' and Arse the next home games. We need to win this or we're in the shit.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Witton Warrior on October 31, 2011, 09:33:51 PM
Must win, 6-pointer blah blah blah...

Storming 4-2 win with Bent, Gabby and 2 from The Zogster

Sitting in the Trinity for only the third time since 1974 - do they allow swearing?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Greg N'Ash on October 31, 2011, 09:54:03 PM
playing well, good team spirit. fuck it 2-0 to us
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: WALTERS WARRIORS on October 31, 2011, 10:09:50 PM
1-0 Herd Think we have just played our best game of the season and our spirit will be high .........
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: villadelph on October 31, 2011, 10:15:51 PM
Aston Villa 3 - 1 Norwich City  FT  Ireland '35, Gabby '65, N'Zogbia '71 | Holt '23
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Matt Collins on October 31, 2011, 10:44:25 PM
2-1. Bent and an n'zogbia winner. Same xi I reckon.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: atomicjam on October 31, 2011, 10:46:50 PM
3-1 Villa, Bent, Gabby (2) for us, someone I have never heard of for them.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: taylorsworkrate on October 31, 2011, 10:54:34 PM
Must win and will win, nervously, 2-1
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: old man villa fan on October 31, 2011, 11:09:03 PM
A must win game.  The effect of a defeat on the confidence of the team (and the supporters) could be devastating.

These days and for a long time now, I have not been confident which Villa team would turn up.  It has been a long time since I thought guaranteed 3 points.

The one thing that could swing it for us is PL experience.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Lobsterboy on October 31, 2011, 11:28:29 PM
Hoping Jenas is going to be fit and Ireland can displace Heskey

Confident we will beat the Canaries and whereas my heart says a comfortable 4-1 win my head says it will be a slightly more stressful 2-1 win

Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: cheltenhamlion on November 01, 2011, 12:24:58 AM
Draw. They take the lead first half, we get one back second, and then spend half an hour farting about and not breaking them down.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Louzie0 on November 01, 2011, 12:38:52 AM
Villa 5+   Stephen Fry's best effort 0


Villa v Norwich?
What are we worried about?  Come on! 
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: villadelph on November 01, 2011, 12:56:09 AM
Hoping Jenas is going to be fit and Ireland can displace Heskey

spot on. I really hope Jenas comes on and I'd like to see us with some actual technical skill in the midfield.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: The Left Side on November 01, 2011, 01:11:20 AM
Draw for me if Norwich play like they did against the redscouse.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: PeterWithesShin on November 01, 2011, 01:13:43 AM
I can't believe i'm worried about playing Norwich at home, or how it important it is for the confidence of players and fans.
I'm hoping for a straightforward win, i'm expecting a nervy 2-1 win where we are desperately holding on. Or a draw because we failed to desperately hold on.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: JUAN PABLO on November 01, 2011, 01:15:54 AM
Villa 1 Norwich 0

Ray Graydon
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: adrenachrome on November 01, 2011, 01:47:56 AM
Villa 1 Norwich 0

Ray Graydon

ASTON VILLA
CANARY KILLA
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: KevinGage on November 01, 2011, 02:14:23 AM
1-1

Bent for us.   Robert Fleck for them.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eamonn on November 01, 2011, 02:22:53 AM
Does anyone know if we're paying Jenas' salary while injured? We had to subsidise most of Ireland's time at Newcastle cos he wasn't fit as far as I know.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eastie on November 01, 2011, 07:56:50 AM
Very impressed with the way norwich play and lambert could be one to keep an eye on in the future, i expect a very open game and a 2-2 scoreline ,i would like to see cuellar alongside dunne in the centre of defence but i expect alex to stick with the same back 4.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: UK Redsox on November 01, 2011, 08:05:52 AM
Must win, 6-pointer blah blah blah...

Storming 4-2 win with Bent, Gabby and 2 from The Zogster

Sitting in the Trinity for only the third time since 1974 - do they allow swearing?


Depends where in the TR.

In the central part of the TR Lower, we tend towards sarcastic comments.

However, we do have one bloke designated as the one to have ago at the visiting manager.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: PaulTheVillan on November 01, 2011, 09:30:16 AM
Draw 1-1.

Gabby & Holt
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: PaulTheVillan on November 01, 2011, 09:31:12 AM
Jenas will be on the bench if he's lucky.

Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Newquay_AVFC on November 01, 2011, 09:46:19 AM
Gone with draw but really don't know. I don't think we will lose so either 1-1 or a really crap display and nick it 2-1.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: darren woolley on November 01, 2011, 09:48:54 AM
2-1 Bent and Gabby.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: PaulTheVillan on November 01, 2011, 09:50:40 AM
I would really like us to switch to 442 for this game.

Given
Hutton Clark Dunne Warnock
Albrighton Petrov Herd N'Zogbia
Gabby Bent
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: jembob on November 01, 2011, 09:52:59 AM
Win for us 3-1. Norwich got really lucky against Blackburn at the weekend and should have been nailed. They seem pretty organised away from home but I Gabby and Bent to tear them a new one.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Concrete John on November 01, 2011, 10:09:51 AM
I've gone for a win.

Couple of things I'd like to see:-
1.  Heskey not playing
2.  A clean sheet
3.  N'Zogbia carry on from his display at Sunderland
4.  Bent on the scoresheet again

None of that will probably actually happen, so I'll settle for the win! 
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: UsualSuspect on November 01, 2011, 10:23:35 AM
When the fixtures came out, people rather naturally looked at this game and would have thought 'home banker'. However, their form and style of play will have surely prompted a rethink, and our own ability to cope with pressure and cause problems ourselves has been brought into question. I think we'd do quite well to get something out of this, and it really could go in any direction.

Totally agree Monty

Norwich will come out and have a go as the did at Anfield & OT
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Dave Cooper please on November 01, 2011, 10:32:51 AM
4-0 to us, it's going to click eventually and this is the match.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: DB on November 01, 2011, 10:49:46 AM
4-0 to us, it's going to click eventually and this is the match.

I hope you're right!
2-1 to us.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Risso on November 01, 2011, 10:50:35 AM
We should be winning this, and think we will 2-1.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Archbishop Herbert Cockthrottle on November 01, 2011, 10:56:02 AM
Look out for the special extended Match of the Day this weekend:

Villa 8 (eight) - Bent (4), Agbonglahor (2), Petrov, Ireland Norwich 3
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Concrete John on November 01, 2011, 11:00:50 AM
Look out for the special extended Match of the Day this weekend:

Villa 8 (eight) - Bent (4), Agbonglahor (2), Petrov, Ireland Norwich 3

We'll still only get 2 minutes at the end.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: JUAN PABLO on November 01, 2011, 11:01:03 AM
Jenas will be on the bench if he's lucky.



Hope not , he will get a splinter in his leg and hobble off it  injured
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: JUAN PABLO on November 01, 2011, 11:02:23 AM
Do like the look of Lambert , so similar through his manager years as MON but his football looks more attractive .
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: paulcomben on November 01, 2011, 11:40:51 AM
Failure to collect all three points ought to lead to a lot of anti-AM statements.  Ole Gunner Solksjaer just won the Norwegian league championship fopr the the first time in his club's history in his first year as manager.  The budget must be tiny.  Get him in?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: N'ZMAV on November 01, 2011, 11:51:32 AM
I'm going for another draw.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Shrek on November 01, 2011, 11:56:55 AM
Same line up bar Bannan in for Heskey.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Boz on November 01, 2011, 11:57:52 AM
Look out for the special extended Match of the Day this weekend:

Villa 8 (eight) - Bent (4), Agbonglahor (2), Petrov, Ireland Norwich 3

We'll still only get 2 minutes at the end.

As it will be a 1-1 draw, last on is a certainty  :(

All the football from Delia's lads and much passing to and fro in our own half for much of the game. Will one of our strikers get a goal this week???
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Mr Diggles on November 01, 2011, 12:00:41 PM
Given the run of games after this match anything other than a win will be seriously concering.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: UsualSuspect on November 01, 2011, 01:08:28 PM
Any news on bannan?

Plus has jenas had any reserve games?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: paulcomben on November 01, 2011, 02:32:26 PM
They really seem to be struggling to draw a crowd, even from among richer folk: http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10265~2501498,00.html
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: TheTimVilla on November 01, 2011, 02:35:32 PM
One all, boos at full time.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Witton Warrior on November 01, 2011, 02:37:55 PM
Villa 1 Norwich 0  Ray Graydon

ASTON VILLA
CANARY KILLA


F**K OFF YOU BANANAS - F**K OFF YOU BANANAS LA LAA LAAR LA
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Mr Diggles on November 01, 2011, 02:46:17 PM
Failure to collect all three points ought to lead to a lot of anti-AM statements.  Ole Gunner Solksjaer just won the Norwegian league championship fopr the the first time in his club's history in his first year as manager.  The budget must be tiny.  Get him in?

Because success with Molde is a sure-fire guarantee of success in the Premier League.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: UsualSuspect on November 01, 2011, 02:48:56 PM
They really seem to be struggling to draw a crowd, even from among richer folk: http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10265~2501498,00.html

Bugger me don't mention a poor crowd and discounting tickets!!!!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Witton Warrior on November 01, 2011, 02:50:54 PM
Must win, 6-pointer blah blah blah...

Storming 4-2 win with Bent, Gabby and 2 from The Zogster

Sitting in the Trinity for only the third time since 1974 - do they allow swearing?


Depends where in the TR.

In the central part of the TR Lower, we tend towards sarcastic comments.

However, we do have one bloke designated as the one to have ago at the visiting manager.

Aha! So my barbed wit will not be lost on the Upper tier towards the Witton...
My lad always wants to vent his spleen against the ref but he gets it wrong occasionally so I have to "launch" him ;-)
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: CJ on November 01, 2011, 05:16:39 PM
Any news on bannan?

Plus has jenas had any reserve games?

According to the Barry Bannan Arrested thread he's back in training, and according to this on the OS (http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10265~2500996,00.html) Jenas was touch and go for Sunderland but will be available for the Norwich game
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: hipkiss92 on November 01, 2011, 05:41:38 PM
Failure to collect all three points ought to lead to a lot of anti-AM statements.  Ole Gunner Solksjaer just won the Norwegian league championship fopr the the first time in his club's history in his first year as manager.  The budget must be tiny.  Get him in?

Because success with Molde is a sure-fire guarantee of success in the Premier League.

When they finished 11th the previous season he must be doing something right
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: garyshawsknee on November 01, 2011, 05:47:08 PM
We really need to squeeze out a win to get some points on the board before our tricky December schedule. Just as important though is the manner of the performance as there's only been a handful of promising signs so far this season,we need to see signs of some progression.

 So with a positive state of mind, im going for a 3-1 win,and even Ireland to get his first goal.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: midnite on November 01, 2011, 06:14:31 PM
3-0 with Ireland, N'Zogbia and Jenas to finish it off.

Yeah right, 1-1 another bore draw.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: TheSandman on November 01, 2011, 09:13:10 PM
Failure to collect all three points ought to lead to a lot of anti-AM statements.  Ole Gunner Solksjaer just won the Norwegian league championship fopr the the first time in his club's history in his first year as manager.  The budget must be tiny.  Get him in?

You are John Blackwell and I claim my £5.

Like to see Bannan and maybe Cuellar or Clark come in to the team from last weekend.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Dave Clark Five on November 01, 2011, 10:20:05 PM
N'Zogbia to score two free kicks from around 25 yards and McLeish to be blamed for not letting him take them before.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: pauliewalnuts on November 01, 2011, 10:53:28 PM
I thought N'Zogbia played very well last week.

It'd be nice to see him carry on this week. He's an exceptional player who is just taking time to settle.

I think the people giving him most stick have obviously forgotten what happened with Downing.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eamonn on November 02, 2011, 03:49:47 AM
It's been mildly amusing to see people who bastardised their usernames to incorporate a feature of Zoggy's unusual name sheepishly revert to their old monikers as he's started his Villa career with a series of dud performances.

After the encouraging signs at Sunderland, this is the game where he'll step up and everyone will be 'N apostropheing to their hearts' content once more.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Olneythelonely on November 02, 2011, 06:58:26 AM
I'm sticking with mine.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Jimbo on November 02, 2011, 08:22:08 AM
Some kind of score-draw, with goal(s) conceded in the usual manner.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: TaxDodger on November 02, 2011, 08:51:19 AM
Jenas is going to be injured again isn't he?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: N'ZMAV on November 02, 2011, 09:39:04 AM
Jenas has retired.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: JUAN PABLO on November 02, 2011, 10:01:14 AM
Jenas is going to be injured again isn't he?

depends how he gets out of bed
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Risso on November 02, 2011, 10:04:53 AM
I thought N'Zogbia played very well last week.

It'd be nice to see him carry on this week. He's an exceptional player who is just taking time to settle.

I think the people giving him most stick have obviously forgotten what happened with Downing.

I think the people who keep comparing him to Downing have obviously forgotten what happened with Marlon Harewood ;) . All I'd say about N'Zogbia at the weekend is that he wasn't as bad as he has normally been.  I certainly wouldn't say it was a "good" performance.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Ads on November 02, 2011, 10:29:01 AM
I agree with you Paulie, I thought he played well.

He brought a lot of players into play and look dangerous on the break. My one criticism is that he likes to drift inside a bit too much for my liking, after a good few years of watching Young maroud down the line, I'd like to see him take the full back on a lot more.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: PaulTheVillan on November 02, 2011, 10:43:32 AM
He seems to cut in too close to the byline, then will always have to shoot from a narrower angle. Maybe if he cut in towards the edge of the box like Ash used too, he'll have the choice to shoot or cross.

I thought he was better, about time.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: TimTheVillain on November 02, 2011, 10:45:24 AM
I agree with you Paulie, I thought he played well.

He brought a lot of players into play and look dangerous on the break. My one criticism is that he likes to drift inside a bit too much for my liking, after a good few years of watching Young maroud down the line, I'd like to see him take the full back on a lot more.

I don't think he has the pace for that.

He would play far better for us if we kept the ball around the box as opposed to panic and get over anxious.

Albrighton was supposed to bridge the wing gap, but he isn't doing it.

N'Zog will be a great player for us IF we play to his strengths.

If we don't, he'll continue as he is.

Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: JUAN PABLO on November 02, 2011, 11:04:48 AM
I agree with you Paulie, I thought he played well.

He brought a lot of players into play and look dangerous on the break. My one criticism is that he likes to drift inside a bit too much for my liking, after a good few years of watching Young maroud down the line, I'd like to see him take the full back on a lot more.

I don't think he has the pace for that.

He would play far better for us if we kept the ball around the box as opposed to panic and get over anxious.

Albrighton was supposed to bridge the wing gap, but he isn't doing it.

N'Zog will be a great player for us IF we play to his strengths.

If we don't, he'll continue as he is.



a bit like Bent really , play to his strengths   and he will score
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Risso on November 02, 2011, 11:58:44 AM
Other than when he misses off course!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Dave Clark Five on November 02, 2011, 12:13:06 PM
The players need to use their own initiative as well. Just standing and waiting for the ball has never been part of the game, regardless of formations and managerial instructions.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Vanilla on November 02, 2011, 12:15:07 PM
I don't think N'Zogbia is actually sure what his role is. Surely this would have been discussed with him before we bought him. And the fact the manager admired him for so long makes the fact he looks lost in the team even more of a mystery.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Concrete John on November 02, 2011, 12:18:23 PM
I don't think N'Zogbia is actually sure what his role is. Surely this would have been discussed with him before we bought him. And the fact the manager admired him for so long makes the fact he looks lost in the team even more of a mystery.

His role is that of the wide right player in a 4-3-3.  I don't think there's any communication issue there - just that he's been playing poorly!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Dave Clark Five on November 02, 2011, 12:22:46 PM
Exactly. Oh look, I've crossed the half way line. Must pass it now. It's not bloody table football, where you are all swinging from a rod with someone controlling you. Nobody needs to tell Rooney to go and fetch it.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Simon Ward on November 02, 2011, 12:27:21 PM
Squeeky bum time again as we struggle to kill off a match we should win!
2-1 with us holding on for dear life at the end of 5 minutes added time.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: AV82EC on November 02, 2011, 01:14:01 PM
Is it just me or is anyone else getting worried abouthe fact that Jenas is being cast as some kind of saviour this week? I seem to recall someone else being lauded to the skies in the week before a home game with Norwich and we all remember how that turned out.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: AV82EC on November 02, 2011, 01:16:28 PM
Oh and 2-1 to the Villa.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: glasses on November 02, 2011, 01:19:01 PM
Is it just me or is anyone else getting worried abouthe fact that Jenas is being cast as some kind of saviour this week? I seem to recall someone else being lauded to the skies in the week before a home game with Norwich and we all remember how that turned out.
You might need to remind of who that was?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Ads on November 02, 2011, 01:21:36 PM
Is it just me or is anyone else getting worried abouthe fact that Jenas is being cast as some kind of saviour this week? I seem to recall someone else being lauded to the skies in the week before a home game with Norwich and we all remember how that turned out.

Not really.

Jenas is a good player and coming into an area which has been gutted over the past two or three seasons. Its not just Young and Downding, its also Barry and Milner who've never been replaced.

I'm looking forward to seeing Jenas in there, as I think he is the sort of player that drives on past the front man and link up the midfield with the attack. Anybody that can bring a bit of get up and go to the middle of our park is more than welcome.

People say we're a mid-table side. We're not. We have plenty of good players, we just have a poor midfield that lets us down.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Concrete John on November 02, 2011, 01:45:52 PM
Is it just me or is anyone else getting worried abouthe fact that Jenas is being cast as some kind of saviour this week? I seem to recall someone else being lauded to the skies in the week before a home game with Norwich and we all remember how that turned out.

I know what you mean - never been a big fan of Jenas as a player.  However, I'll give him a chance in a Villa shirt and as Ads says it's an area of the pitch we could do with some new blood in.

And I genuinely don't know who you're referring to in the 2nd part of your post!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: PeterWithesShin on November 02, 2011, 02:16:43 PM
Ugo?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Concrete John on November 02, 2011, 02:21:27 PM
Ugo in 92/93 was my first thought, but I can't remember him being 'lauded to the skies' prior to the game?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: PeterWithesShin on November 02, 2011, 02:48:18 PM
Ugo in 92/93 was my first thought, but I can't remember him being 'lauded to the skies' prior to the game?

That was the bit that threw me as well.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: TonyD on November 02, 2011, 03:02:20 PM
I really don't have a clue how this game will pan out.   Fingers crossed for a good solid team peformance and 3 points.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Vanilla on November 02, 2011, 03:03:17 PM
I don't think N'Zogbia is actually sure what his role is. Surely this would have been discussed with him before we bought him. And the fact the manager admired him for so long makes the fact he looks lost in the team even more of a mystery.

His role is that of the wide right player in a 4-3-3.  I don't think there's any communication issue there - just that he's been playing poorly!

We don't seem to be playing 4-3-3 though. It's more like a 4-4-2, switching to a 4-5-1.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Vanilla on November 02, 2011, 03:04:49 PM
I really don't have a clue how this game will pan out.   Fingers crossed for a good solid team peformance and 3 points.

Don't know about the solid team performance, but the 3 points is so vital with the games coming up.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Concrete John on November 02, 2011, 03:31:59 PM
I don't think N'Zogbia is actually sure what his role is. Surely this would have been discussed with him before we bought him. And the fact the manager admired him for so long makes the fact he looks lost in the team even more of a mystery.

His role is that of the wide right player in a 4-3-3.  I don't think there's any communication issue there - just that he's been playing poorly!

We don't seem to be playing 4-3-3 though. It's more like a 4-4-2, switching to a 4-5-1.

The closest we've got to a 4-4-2 under AM is the Diamond we played against Wigan, but even then we had Gabby wide more often than not.

I do think our formation under AM is a bit unusual as it uses Heskey in the attacking midfield role for some unknown reason.  It's almost as if he sets up the defence, puts two midfielders infront of them, then sticks Gabby wide left of Bent with the two remaining players a bit lost positionally.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: levico on November 02, 2011, 03:32:52 PM
Of course it will be a draw.

Norwich are not bad enough for us to register one of our rare wins.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: JJ-AV on November 02, 2011, 04:42:12 PM
0-1 Norwich.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: SoccerHQ on November 02, 2011, 08:21:49 PM
3-2 win and a late goal from Dunne.

This could be similar to the Blackpool game at VP from last season.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: VancouverLion on November 02, 2011, 09:13:11 PM
2-0 Bent 12, Gabby 78.
Same team as last week except Jenas in for Heskey.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on November 02, 2011, 09:47:47 PM
1-0
Late Bent Winner
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Eigentor on November 02, 2011, 10:01:42 PM
1-1

To our surprise, Norwich will dominate the match early on, but we will score on the break with Gabby.

Then we defend our lead vigourously with 10 men behind the ball. Norwich runs out of steam, we start to control the match and even vaguely look like scoring a second. But then we concede on a set-piece in the last 5 minutes. After that, headless end-to-end until the final whistle.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: KRS on November 03, 2011, 12:49:38 AM
Anything other than a win is not acceptable.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: villadelph on November 03, 2011, 07:02:34 AM
Is there any word on whether Bannan will be considered to play? Surely Jenas will see his debut. I honestly think he will get on the pitch and be miles better than anyone we have available. He's got a certain charisma that truly lacks in our midfield.

utv
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: N'ZMAV on November 03, 2011, 08:01:28 AM
Bannas is in the squad.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: UK Redsox on November 03, 2011, 09:12:05 AM
From Pravda...............

Quote
There will also be a rapier on show - a surface to air missile developed by the British Army.

Who will it be aimed at ?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: taylorsworkrate on November 03, 2011, 09:14:55 AM
From Pravda...............

Quote
There will also be a rapier on show - a surface to air missile developed by the British Army.

Who will it be aimed at ?


Heskey?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: N'ZMAV on November 03, 2011, 09:27:31 AM
Bannan?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: philthebar on November 03, 2011, 10:30:43 AM
I've voted for a win.

2 - 0

But I'm not sure whether this is a heart or head vote.  Dread to think of the consequences if we lose. 
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: stubbsyandy on November 03, 2011, 01:59:58 PM
Its dreading the consequences of losing that is holding us back on the field I think
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: N'ZMAV on November 03, 2011, 02:06:15 PM
I think the players are gonig to start feeling the pressure if we lose this weekend
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: villajk on November 03, 2011, 04:43:27 PM
I'm going the prudent route.  A draw.  2-2.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: villa `cross the mersey on November 03, 2011, 05:04:27 PM
Not coming down this weekend so its bound to be a decent win 2- 0,  or similar.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on November 03, 2011, 06:57:37 PM
When the fixtures came out, people rather naturally looked at this game and would have thought 'home banker'. However, their form and style of play will have surely prompted a rethink, and our own ability to cope with pressure and cause problems ourselves has been brought into question. I think we'd do quite well to get something out of this, and it really could go in any direction.

I agree that Norwich will be no push overs, they can certainly play at bit, certainly more than us but that's been the case with most teams for years. We really need to start raising our game in all areas but we're already into November and I'm still waiting for us to click. Hopefully we'll manage it on Saturday, it's sure to be a very open game and it'll be up to us to dictate the game.

We desperately need to win this one and I think we will. I'll go for a 3-1 Villa win. Anything less won't be worth thinking about.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Dave Clark Five on November 03, 2011, 07:02:20 PM
From Pravda...............

Quote
There will also be a rapier on show - a surface to air missile developed by the British Army.

Who will it be aimed at ?


They are too late. Lerner's private jet touched down at Elmdon this morning.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: SoccerHQ on November 03, 2011, 07:22:36 PM
Norwich are playing really well but any team that concedes 3 at home to Blackburn can be got at defensively I'd imagine.

We really need a win in this as the next 10 games bar the two with Swansea and Bolton away are filling me with plenty of dread.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: woody4866 on November 03, 2011, 07:46:24 PM
Classic 6 pointer

we`ll lose :'(
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Rigadon on November 03, 2011, 07:49:50 PM
A home win and some much needed optimism similar to what followed the Wigan win.  Gabby and Bent to score against a Championship defence.  2-0.

From what I've seen Norwich are this years Blackpool.  They'll draw patronising 'aren't they resilient for not getting spanked 10-0 at the theatre of dreams (puke)' remarks from pundits  like 'Saggers' / 'Quinny' / Lineker / All the others  but go down never to be seen again.  And I say that from the perspective of somebody who has a bit of a soft spot for them (long story). 
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Rigadon on November 03, 2011, 07:51:08 PM
Classic 6 pointer

we`ll lose :'(

Oh dear Woody, you need a lie down / pint of beer mate!  6 pointer?  In November?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: timeoutbigbar on November 03, 2011, 07:52:38 PM
Since i'm now going to this one, i'll change my original prediction to 4-0 to Villa!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: woody4866 on November 03, 2011, 08:02:57 PM
Classic 6 pointer

we`ll lose :'(

Oh dear Woody, you need a lie down / pint of beer mate!  6 pointer?  In November?

I`ve had a lie down / 4 bottles of London Pride and I still feel the same
We`ll be battling these come April/May, so yes - a 6 pointer
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: taylorsworkrate on November 03, 2011, 10:31:31 PM
It most definitely is a huge game.

We've had it pretty easy so far, but our run of fixtures coming up doesn't make for pleasent reading, so 3 points here is a must.

Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Rigadon on November 04, 2011, 06:46:04 AM
Every home game is important.  There is no chance we're going to get relegated this season.  Whatsoever.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Broughty-Villian on November 04, 2011, 06:57:04 AM
If Heskey starts, a draw. 2-2. starts with Heskey on bench, 2-0 win.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Mark H on November 04, 2011, 09:10:27 AM
I will go for my old faithfull of 2-1 to us
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: pedro25 on November 04, 2011, 09:11:53 AM
I'd love to drop Heskey but we're shaky enough at defending set pieces as we are, never mind if we drop Heskey for a midget like Bannan/Marc or Ireland.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Broughty-Villian on November 04, 2011, 09:16:51 AM
I live too far from VP to attend every game, but from the tv, Heskey does nowt at corners, and nowt FULL STOP for 60 minutes, then spends 30mins breathing through his arse. I can't understand, how we are so unorganised at set-pieces. We have been like it since middle of last season
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Broughty-Villian on November 04, 2011, 09:35:20 AM
Lawro has us down for a 2-1 win.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: JUAN PABLO on November 04, 2011, 09:59:08 AM
Please NO heskey in midfield ....   

PLEASE NO
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: JUAN PABLO on November 04, 2011, 10:00:45 AM
In fact If we start with Heskey in midfield at home against Norwich .

I will be disgusted .

Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: PaulTheVillan on November 04, 2011, 10:14:15 AM
I really don't think I can bare to look at Heskey as midfielder. I'd much rather Delph or Jenas or Ireland or Bannan or Albrighton start.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: villajk on November 04, 2011, 10:30:03 AM
Regarding Heskey:

http://www.expressandstar.com/sport/aston-villa-fc/2011/11/03/alex-mcleish-we-all-love-emile-heskey/
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: taylorsworkrate on November 04, 2011, 10:45:05 AM
Every home game is important.  There is no chance we're going to get relegated this season.  Whatsoever.

Whilst I don't think we'll go down, to say there is no chance is absolutely bonkers.

Its generally very tight from about 8th downwards.  We only really confirmed staying up last season with only 2 or 3 games remaining.  Since then we have lost our 2 best players, plus some very reliable performers.  We have had a mediocre start at best, despite a relatively kind fixture list.  We now have a nightmarish run of games coming up, which could see us in real trouble come the new year.

As I say, I don't think we'll go down, as there are a no of poor teams in the league and I think Bent will score enough goals to win us enough games.

But it is ridiculous to dismiss the possibility.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: N'ZMAV on November 04, 2011, 11:33:29 AM
We can't go on playing Heskey in all of these other roles. If he plays, then he plays up front with Bent. Although, does he deserve that role? Has he been better than Gabby? No. Emile, it's bench time.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Karl Bridges on November 04, 2011, 11:37:36 AM
It should be an open game. I think there will be goals 5-3 to Villa.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Dave Clark Five on November 04, 2011, 11:46:45 AM
Looking forward to beating them about 4-0. Maybe that will stop some of the bleating.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: N'ZMAV on November 04, 2011, 01:04:53 PM
it won't.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Barca 2011 on November 04, 2011, 01:14:48 PM
Quote

Looking forward to beating them about 4-0. Maybe that will stop some of the bleating.


Quote

it won't.

The bleating may stop, but wait until December fixtures!!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Toronto Villa on November 04, 2011, 06:26:06 PM
I love Jermaine Jenas's attitude and I hope he gets a game tomorrow. I'm very optimistic about tomorrow - 3-1 to us, Bent (2), Gabby - 2 assists for Jermaine
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: PaulWinch again on November 04, 2011, 08:28:30 PM
Right well I'm out for this tomorrow, so I'll say now come on you Villa boys!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Louzie0 on November 04, 2011, 08:33:12 PM
Really, really hope that JJ will be able to play (and last well into the second half) before being substituted, tomorrow.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: andyaston on November 04, 2011, 08:40:29 PM
Quote

Looking forward to beating them about 4-0. Maybe that will stop some of the bleating.


Quote

it won't.

The bleating may stop, but wait until December fixtures!!
I know, Villa always of late seem to do their best to spoil Christmas and with that set of fixtures they may again.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Rioch is King on November 04, 2011, 08:56:37 PM
Thrilling 1 - 1 draw. Hutton for us, diving header.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: gervilla on November 04, 2011, 09:58:22 PM
Regarding Heskey:

http://www.expressandstar.com/sport/aston-villa-fc/2011/11/03/alex-mcleish-we-all-love-emile-heskey/

He's crap up front, crap out on the wing and crap in central midfield......and he also does fuck all when defending at corners. Well , he's consistent at least.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Legion on November 04, 2011, 10:00:55 PM
OK up front. Adequate on the wing. Abysmal in central midfield.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: PaulWinch again on November 04, 2011, 10:06:29 PM
OK up front. Adequate on the wing. Abysmal in central midfield.

That's how I'd sum it up.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: gervilla on November 04, 2011, 10:09:22 PM
Well if he is O.K. up front then we really have low standards in what we expect from a center forward. Sad times indeed.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Eigentor on November 04, 2011, 10:10:47 PM
Quote

Looking forward to beating them about 4-0. Maybe that will stop some of the bleating.


Quote

it won't.

The bleating may stop, but wait until December fixtures!!
I know, Villa always of late seem to do their best to spoil Christmas and with that set of fixtures they may again.

For some reason my feeling is that we will underperform in the easier fixtures this month, but take some unexpected points in December, leaving us in lower midtable by the new year.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: devilla on November 04, 2011, 10:24:58 PM
I can't see a clean sheet given our recent terrible record of defending set pieces so I think 2-1 to us. Gabby and Bent for the second after an insightful pass from Jenas in the 89th minute.







Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: ez on November 04, 2011, 11:03:23 PM
3-2 win. Conceding the obligatory late goal.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: TheSandman on November 04, 2011, 11:42:14 PM
Quote

Looking forward to beating them about 4-0. Maybe that will stop some of the bleating.


Quote

it won't.

The bleating may stop, but wait until December fixtures!!
I know, Villa always of late seem to do their best to spoil Christmas and with that set of fixtures they may again.

For some reason my feeling is that we will underperform in the easier fixtures this month, but take some unexpected points in December, leaving us in lower midtable by the new year.

That's my feeling too. McLeish's Blues side were always good at nicking points from the big boys.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: brontebilly on November 05, 2011, 01:57:36 AM
As another poster suggested, if we pick the team properly ie no Heskey, I think we will win fairly comfortably. 2-0, 3-1. Norwich play good football but are stock full of Championship players at the same time. Naughton maybe aside not one other player would make our side.

However McLeish so far seems have to have no real idea tactically how he want us to play. It is kind of a mish mash 442 433 with Gabby playing up top near Bent at times and then on the left at others. 433 is the only formation we should be playing but where does that leave Bent? Id prefer if he were brave and go with the man in form at the moment - Gabby to go up top where he is much better.

Id play us for home games against the likes of Norwich
--------------Given---------------
Hutton, Collins, Dunne, Warnock
------Herd, Petrov, Bannan-------
Nzogbia, Gabby, Ireland

I expect though McLeish will go with
Same back 5
Herd, Petrov
Nzogbia, Heskey, Gabby
----------Bent------------------
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: VancouverLion on November 05, 2011, 05:16:34 AM
I'd go:

Given
Hutton
Collins
Dunne
Warnock

Jenas
Petrov
Herd

N'Zogbia
Gabby
Bent

Push Petrov on and have N'Zog and Gabby wide.

2-0 win.

UTV
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Simba on November 05, 2011, 05:53:25 AM
Testament to the lack of confidence is that it wasn't long ago that I would look at the fixtures for the week-end, the table, and hope our comparitive clubs like Pool and Spuds lose against the lower teams.

Now I bloody hope they win so the lower teams lose the points!

I am always looking downwards hoping we don't get caught. Talk about defeatist.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: TopDeck113 on November 05, 2011, 08:39:20 AM
Feel remarkably confident this morning, but suspect that it will be rather closer than the Gabby hat-trick I was half-dreaming about at 7 o'clock.  2-1 us with an all-too-predictable nervous last five minutes.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Mister E on November 05, 2011, 08:52:18 AM
Norwich have already shown that they are more than a Championship side, with resilience and a bit of flair.
I can't see past a score-draw, sad to say.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: l_mckay on November 05, 2011, 08:55:24 AM
Going to go for a 1-1 draw,not very optimistic about this with the way both teams are playing. But comon villa prove me wrong!!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Phil from the upper holte on November 05, 2011, 09:01:46 AM
I just checked and if we'd have not conceded so many late goals we'd be 4th, Quite depressing really

Draw today 2-2
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: JJ-AV on November 05, 2011, 10:18:04 AM
I think we'll lose and it'll be the beginning of the end for McLeish.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Brian Taylor on November 05, 2011, 10:37:20 AM
I think we'll lose and it'll be the beginning of the end for McLeish.

I hope is more the end of the beginning.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: olaftab on November 05, 2011, 10:37:46 AM
I can see us losing in a high scoring match. Norwich are  open and attacking a bit like Blackpool last year where we were lucky to edge it 3-2. It could be other way round today.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: PaulWinch again on November 05, 2011, 10:52:23 AM
It worries me that when Mcleish was talking about Jenas in relation to this game he said the wages are still astronomical and need to be brought down. How on earth can that be?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: olaftab on November 05, 2011, 10:56:06 AM
Wages can be  decreased by "sacking" Beye, Heskey based on the fact that we have Jenas  to replace Emile in CM (cough!) and Hutton to cover for Habib.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: CJ on November 05, 2011, 11:11:52 AM
It worries me that when Mcleish was talking about Jenas in relation to this game he said the wages are still astronomical and need to be brought down. How on earth can that be?

Now that really is worrying. It suggests that even if, as aftab suggests, we lose the likes of Beye and Heskey (say combined £100k a week, £5m a year) we're unlikely to be able to recruit anyone else. Our squad is paper thin as it is and if we can't replace any departing senior players it looks like we're in for some hard times. I accepted this season as a transitional one. It looks as though it could be more long term
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Brian Taylor on November 05, 2011, 11:18:37 AM
If he does the current Owner's bidding then he is there for the longterm and we are in for a very marginal season. Janurary window forget it with incoming players, other than the Irish lad. Outgoing who knows. Anyone on more than £45k a week? With declining crowds maybe £40k a week. Cheap French and African players is all we can expect. All we can hope is the Euro goes tits up and the pound is more attractive. But that ain't football!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: cheltenhamlion on November 05, 2011, 11:25:19 AM
The head said one all at the start of the week but am now saying two one to us for no other reason than that I have started my journey to the game.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: pauliewalnuts on November 05, 2011, 11:46:39 AM
I think we'll lose and it'll be the beginning of the end for McLeish.

I've a horrible feeling about today as well.

Although someone posted the goals from that 3-3 with Norwich in 1990 the other day, which probably stirred my doom.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Greg N'Ash on November 05, 2011, 11:57:51 AM
Just hope we come out looking to attack. The lack of shots on target or even off target is worrying
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eric woolban woolban on November 05, 2011, 12:10:23 PM
Aston Villa 3 (Bent 37, 44. Agbonlahor 77)

Norwich 1 (Hoolahan 7)
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: supertom on November 05, 2011, 12:19:40 PM
Norwich have played well this season and been a little unfortunate at times. We've been dull as dishwater, only beaten the two shittest teams in the league, and been lucky to have got points in the majority of our drawn games, so I've a feeling that though on paper, we should be winning this, it'll be a struggle. I don't think they'll score, but I can't see us doing much either.

Probably 0-0, or Gabby or Bent will nick us a goal.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Monty on November 05, 2011, 01:06:18 PM
Aston Villa 3 (Bent 37, 44. Agbonlahor 77)

Norwich 1 (Hoolahan 7)

If we concede the first, especially early, I'm not sure we'll register today.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Phil from the upper holte on November 05, 2011, 01:16:54 PM
How can we bring down wages any more? obviously getting rid of Heskey & Beye but if either left i'd be hoping to bring better players in to be honest. This club gets more depressing by the fookin minute
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eastie on November 05, 2011, 01:58:00 PM
How can we bring down wages any more? obviously getting rid of Heskey & Beye but if either left i'd be hoping to bring better players in to be honest. This club gets more depressing by the fookin minute

My worry is whether we willl keep hold of bent if a decent bid comes in , certainly the ambition has really dropped at the club in the last 18 months and if randy feels our kids are good enough im afraid he is in for a shock-today we need a win as already i fear we will be dragged into a relegation scrap.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: berneboy on November 05, 2011, 02:20:56 PM
Norwich v Villa: Ruddy, Martin, Johnson, Morrison, Holt, Pilkington, Houlihan, Bennett, Barnett, Tierney, Naughton. Subs: Rudd, Crofts, Jackson, Surman, Fox, Wilbraham, Delaet.

: VILLA v Norwich: Given, Hutton, Dunne, Collins, Warnock, Petrov, Herd, N'Zogbia, Heskey, Agbonlahor, Bent. Subs: Guzan, Jenas, Ireland, Delph, Albrighton, Clark, Cuellar.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: GordonCowansisthegreatest on November 05, 2011, 02:44:47 PM
Norwich v Villa: Ruddy, Martin, Johnson, Morrison, Holt, Pilkington, Houlihan, Bennett, Barnett, Tierney, Naughton. Subs: Rudd, Crofts, Jackson, Surman, Fox, Wilbraham, Delaet.

: VILLA v Norwich: Given, Hutton, Dunne, Collins, Warnock, Petrov, Herd, N'Zogbia, Heskey, Agbonlahor, Bent. Subs: Guzan, Jenas, Ireland, Delph, Albrighton, Clark, Cuellar.


Bannan not even on the bench!!

Good idea to make him sweat for another week.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: PaulMcGrathsNo5Shirt on November 05, 2011, 02:46:08 PM
Do we really need 3 central midfielders and two strikers on the bench? No forwards on the bench either, No Wieman or Delfouneso on the bench?

Title: Re: Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on November 07, 2011, 03:02:08 PM
Having three centre forwards on the pitch was probably the logic behind the selection.
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