Heroes & Villains, the Aston Villa fanzine

Heroes & Villains => Heroes Discussion => Topic started by: mr woo on February 04, 2013, 06:14:48 PM

Title: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: mr woo on February 04, 2013, 06:14:48 PM
Because of our current plight, it seems anyone connected with football is eager to stick their two-bobs-worth in lately. What's struck me though is how many ex-associates of Villa,  be they player, manager or both, have such a great affinity for the club.

This often goes beyond the fondness you might expect from a former patron and the person in question will often use the words 'we' or 'us' while discussing Villa in the media.

So while we've done the celebrity fans to death, how about a thread for those ex players and managers that became genuine fans because of their time here.

Starting with the obvious....

John Gregory.  He wasn't born locally ( assume he wasn't a boyhood fan anyway), we weren't his first club and he played more games for three other clubs than us. Yet he always talks about Aston Villa being his club and apparently still signs some correspondence with a UTV.

So, known fans such as Ian Taylor or Collymore aside, which other players/managers have been converted to the claret and blue side purely by association? The further afield they came from,  the better.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: peter w on February 04, 2013, 06:18:38 PM
Peter McParland

Alex Cropley

Tony Morley

Ken McNaught

Sir Brian

Sid

Fecking loads ofem.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: richtheholtender on February 04, 2013, 06:21:34 PM
Alex McLeish

David O'Leary
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: dave.woodhall on February 04, 2013, 06:24:09 PM
It's amazing how many of them suddenly become supporters after their playing careers have finished and they're looking for other work.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: damon loves JT on February 04, 2013, 06:32:06 PM
I don't see how it's possible to play professional football and be a 'supporter'. the pressures of the game are too strange and all-consuming.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: peter w on February 04, 2013, 06:34:13 PM
Well not during the years you're playing but you don't change your team even if you have a job trying to beat them.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: JUAN PABLO on February 04, 2013, 06:37:26 PM
God himself always says we
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: Pete3206 on February 04, 2013, 06:51:06 PM
SGT
Colin Gibson
Pat Heard
Des Bremner
Andy Blair

Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: bones. on February 04, 2013, 06:57:35 PM
Dion Dublin
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: JUAN PABLO on February 04, 2013, 06:58:34 PM
Dwight Yorke
shaun Teale
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: ktvillan on February 04, 2013, 06:59:50 PM
Gregory was a Spurs fan originally I believe, but has obviously developed a soft spot for the Villa.   

Mortimer seems to care about Villa too. 
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: Louzie0 on February 04, 2013, 07:05:01 PM
In the car between jobs today, I heard the first 10 minutes of an interview with Brian Little on TS, from just after midday.  Did anybody else hear it? In which case, what did I miss? (Had to leave for the gig just after he said, 'they're a very young team...'!
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: Mortimer's Bear on February 04, 2013, 07:07:31 PM
Sir Graham.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: Ad@m on February 04, 2013, 07:10:05 PM
JPA - still celebrates our (all to infrequent) good results on Twitter.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: dave shelley on February 04, 2013, 07:16:36 PM
It's funny but, reading this thread got me thinking of a slightly different angle.  I always feel that the manager of a club; for the time of his tenure, despite his affiliations and feelings for another club, needs to show that he is a supporter too.  Apart from the obvious that he's getting paid for doing the job.

With O'Leary and O'Neill, I never got that feeling, O'Leary especially, and despite all his leaping up and down I never thought O'Neill got it either.  I may be in the minority but, I believe that Paul Lambert really does.  I think he understands just exactly what an immensely historically institution Aston Villa are and how we as fans see our club, (tactics and methods notwithstanding) which is why I think when he leaves; be it tomorrow or years from now, I think he will be another who chooses to refer to the Villa as us or we.  Just a thought.   
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: tomd2103 on February 04, 2013, 07:21:20 PM
It's amazing how many of them suddenly become supporters after their playing careers have finished and they're looking for other work.

And when the managerial position at the club looks like it might be coming available.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: Risso on February 04, 2013, 07:26:21 PM
It's amazing how many of them suddenly become supporters after their playing careers have finished and they're looking for other work.

And when the managerial position at the club looks like it might be coming available.

Like who?
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: olaftab on February 04, 2013, 07:30:02 PM
Hodge any one?
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: barrysleftfoot on February 04, 2013, 07:42:21 PM

Andy Townsend always comes across as a Villa fan.Ugo has been on TS a lot really as well, and seems to genuinley care.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: rob_bridge on February 04, 2013, 07:58:04 PM
Graham Taylor always

Yep Townsend and Ugo as well

Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: dave.woodhall on February 04, 2013, 08:11:14 PM
The cynic in me wonders whether the amount they care and for which former club depends on which media outlet is asking the question.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: Marlon From Bearwood on February 04, 2013, 08:13:52 PM

Andy Townsend always comes across as a Villa fan.Ugo has been on TS a lot really as well, and seems to genuinley care.

I have to admit it annoys me when they get Ugo on talksport and refer to him as a Villa legend.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: silhillvilla on February 04, 2013, 08:24:58 PM
BFR
Ian Taylor
Steve Staunton
Alan Thompson
John Deehan
Tommy Johnson
Brendan Ormsby

All were at the NUFC game looking concerned for the club, admittedly some were paid to be there.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: cheltenhamlion on February 04, 2013, 08:36:20 PM
Some still do though Dave. Mark Delaney for a start. And whilst he is flavour of the month as a potential defensive coach, Laursen does as well.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: ez on February 04, 2013, 08:42:55 PM
The cynic in me wonders whether the amount they care and for which former club depends on which media outlet is asking the question.
I thought Jimmy Greaves developed a soft spot for us but then he did work on Central News.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: Mortimer's Bear on February 04, 2013, 08:50:21 PM
Stuart Gray always speaks very highly of his time at Villa as if he has a genuine soft spot for us.

Despite being a fairly average player (and albeit an unbeaten temporary manager), I hold him in higher esteem than someone like David Platt who despite being a great player for us gives the impression that playing for us was completely insignificant compared to his time at Arsenal and in Italy.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: mr woo on February 04, 2013, 09:08:08 PM
The cynic in me wonders whether the amount they care and for which former club depends on which media outlet is asking the question.

Very valid point actually. I often heard Andy Gray say he is a Villa man but you get the impression that would change once he gets within 50miles of Goodison.

I've heard Steve Staunton discuss us a couple of times, and although he seems to have affection for Villa, I think he holds Liverpool closer to his heart.

Shaun Teale on the other hand unashamedly nails his colours to the mast and even has a Villa shirt as his twitter ID.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: richtheholtender on February 04, 2013, 09:13:52 PM
The cynic in me wonders whether the amount they care and for which former club depends on which media outlet is asking the question.

I've heard Steve Staunton discuss us a couple of times, and although he seems to have affection for Villa, I think he holds Liverpool closer to his heart.



I think the same about Ray Houghton
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: wookster on February 04, 2013, 09:15:11 PM
Despite being the club that 'made him', I always get the impression that we arnt Andy Grays no 1 team
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on February 04, 2013, 09:19:21 PM
Lew Chatterley.
A lifetime in coaching elsewhere but still a Villa man.

Surprised nobody has mentioned Charlie. 
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: davisa on February 04, 2013, 09:36:55 PM
OLOF!!! He bought me a shirt  8)

Also Carew and Juan Pablo Angel tweet about us all the time.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: eric woolban woolban on February 04, 2013, 09:44:04 PM
Peter Withe.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: Lizz on February 04, 2013, 09:52:53 PM
The cynic in me wonders whether the amount they care and for which former club depends on which media outlet is asking the question.

Think you have a point there, but it's common to most walks of life, not just football. As long as people sound authentic and like they care, it makes the listener feel like the speaker's empathising with them. Thus increasing the speaker's popularity.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: SoccerHQ on February 04, 2013, 10:04:48 PM
Quote
Because of our current plight, it seems anyone connected with football is eager to stick their two-bobs-worth in lately. What's struck me though is how many ex-associates of Villa,  be they player, manager or both, have such a great affinity for the club.

Do people really think this?

I can't help feeling when I hear Bozzy,Platt, Houghton, Ugo or Dwight Yorke etc. on v or radio how quick they're to have a pop at us. In fairness easy in our current plight but I remember a few of them having digs when we were finishing top 6.

Now compare that to Ray Houghton yesterday who said he was going to have a bet on Liverpool finishing top 4 this season! And the usual fawning whenever the topic goes to Liverpool or Man. United for some of the players above. Bizarre in Bosnich's case when you consider how difficult his spells at Man. United and with Fergie were.

As to the question, I'd say Paul Merson. Always wants us to do well, still lives in the local area and I think his kids are villa fans.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: SoccerHQ on February 04, 2013, 10:09:30 PM
Stuart Gray always speaks very highly of his time at Villa as if he has a genuine soft spot for us.

Despite being a fairly average player (and albeit an unbeaten temporary manager), I hold him in higher esteem than someone like David Platt who despite being a great player for us gives the impression that playing for us was completely insignificant compared to his time at Arsenal and in Italy.

When Platt was doing regular media work on Sky years ago, he always seemed to down play or knock us when he covered our games (this was 07-08 btw) and yet would get all misty-eyed when he was covering Man. United. I was struggling to work out which team released him at 16 and which took a punt on him at Crewe.

I imagine that's all stopped now that Man. City employ him anyway.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: pestria on February 04, 2013, 10:13:35 PM
While not 'Villa Men' I always thought Clough, Keegan and even Trevor Francis spoke well about us.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: damon loves JT on February 04, 2013, 10:21:24 PM
Yes, I like Trevor Francis. I like him a lot
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: SoccerHQ on February 04, 2013, 10:22:05 PM
Adrian Durham!  ;D

Edit: He did say on the Villa crisis drive time show last week that us winning the european cup was the greatest european achievement by an english team in his opinion.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: silhillvilla on February 04, 2013, 10:42:20 PM
Collymore
McInally
Froggatt
Merson
Sir Brian
Sir Graham
Ugo

The above all seem to have genuine feelings for the club.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: LeeB on February 04, 2013, 10:47:38 PM
Yes, I like Trevor Francis. I like him a lot

I get the feeling he wishes it was us he was playing for.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: LeeB on February 04, 2013, 10:48:43 PM
I can't remember who it was, but someone on here pointed out that Mark Kinsella absolutely loves the Villa.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: SoccerHQ on February 04, 2013, 11:01:04 PM
I can't remember who it was, but someone on here pointed out that Mark Kinsella absolutely loves the Villa.

Really, just a non-descript player from the last 10 years in my mind. Would just associate him with Charlton's rise and success under Curbishley.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: Des Little on February 04, 2013, 11:02:16 PM
I read recently that Townsend's lads are Villa fans
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: richtheholtender on February 04, 2013, 11:05:15 PM
Adrian Durham!  ;D

Edit: He did say on the Villa crisis drive time show last week that us winning the european cup was the greatest european achievement by an english team in his opinion.


I always find he likes us. He always says our European cup win is the greatest achievement by an English side.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: richtheholtender on February 04, 2013, 11:05:57 PM
Adrian Durham!  ;D

Edit: He did say on the Villa crisis drive time show last week that us winning the european cup was the greatest european achievement by an english team in his opinion.


I always find he likes us. He always says our European cup win is the greatest achievement by an English side.

Apologies, didnt see the edit
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: Salsa Party Animal on February 04, 2013, 11:08:29 PM
Have we ever tried to buy Trevor Francis ? Just interested to know
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: Leighton on February 05, 2013, 12:02:47 AM
Dean Saunders. He seemed to have been hurting just as much as the Holte in that freak show against Bradford.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: robbo1874 on February 05, 2013, 08:16:13 AM
Bosnich falls over himself to talk about utd when he is on fox
Quote
Because of our current plight, it seems anyone connected with football is eager to stick their two-bobs-worth in lately. What's struck me though is how many ex-associates of Villa,  be they player, manager or both, have such a great affinity for the club.

Do people really think this?

I can't help feeling when I hear Bozzy,Platt, Houghton, Ugo or Dwight Yorke etc. on v or radio how quick they're to have a pop at us. In fairness easy in our current plight but I remember a few of them having digs when we were finishing top 6.

Now compare that to Ray Houghton yesterday who said he was going to have a bet on Liverpool finishing top 4 this season! And the usual fawning whenever the topic goes to Liverpool or Man. United for some of the players above. Bizarre in Bosnich's case when you consider how difficult his spells at Man. United and with Fergie were.

As to the question, I'd say Paul Merson. Always wants us to do well, still lives in the local area and I think his kids are villa fans.


Bosnich always falls over himself to gush about man utd when he's presenting the 'soccer' on fox sports. Never mentions the villa.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: Damo70 on February 05, 2013, 08:19:38 AM
Aside from those who grew up supporting Villa anyway I think Graham Taylor, Brian Little, John Gregory, McInally, Yorke, McGrath, Teale, Froggatt, Townsend, Saunders, Merson, Mellberg and Laursen seem to have the most affection for us. Along with the players from 1980-1982. Andy Gray is fond of Villa, but we are second best to Everton. Same as we are to Staunton and Houghton with Liverpool. Keown will always be Arsenal but seems to have warmed to us recently. David Platt never seemed to appreciate who and what he was when he left us compared to when he arrived.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: Phil from the upper holte on February 05, 2013, 08:52:51 AM
Shaun Teale is ace on twitter, he's like a full on fan
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: MonsXI on February 05, 2013, 09:10:10 AM
Collymore
McInally
Froggatt
Merson
Sir Brian
Sir Graham
Ugo

The above all seem to have genuine feelings for the club.

Merson? He talks like someone who used to play for us nothing more.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: N'ZMAV on February 05, 2013, 09:50:08 AM
What about David Platt? ;)
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: rob_bridge on February 05, 2013, 10:12:48 AM
The cynic in me wonders whether the amount they care and for which former club depends on which media outlet is asking the question.

Very valid point actually. I often heard Andy Gray say he is a Villa man but you get the impression that would change once he gets within 50miles of Goodison.

I've heard Steve Staunton discuss us a couple of times, and although he seems to have affection for Villa, I think he holds Liverpool closer to his heart.

Shaun Teale on the other hand unashamedly nails his colours to the mast and even has a Villa shirt as his twitter ID.

Yep this for me though still think Gray is a tool who never seems to understand the rules of the game.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: rob_bridge on February 05, 2013, 10:20:14 AM
I've seen Trevor Francis at Villa a few times presumably doing local media work. I doubt he is much of a fan though  ;D
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: N'ZMAV on February 05, 2013, 10:49:15 AM
Brian Little still seems to like us....
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: OzVilla on February 05, 2013, 11:23:30 AM
Bosnich falls over himself to talk about utd when he is on fox
Quote
Because of our current plight, it seems anyone connected with football is eager to stick their two-bobs-worth in lately. What's struck me though is how many ex-associates of Villa,  be they player, manager or both, have such a great affinity for the club.

Do people really think this?

I can't help feeling when I hear Bozzy,Platt, Houghton, Ugo or Dwight Yorke etc. on v or radio how quick they're to have a pop at us. In fairness easy in our current plight but I remember a few of them having digs when we were finishing top 6.

Now compare that to Ray Houghton yesterday who said he was going to have a bet on Liverpool finishing top 4 this season! And the usual fawning whenever the topic goes to Liverpool or Man. United for some of the players above. Bizarre in Bosnich's case when you consider how difficult his spells at Man. United and with Fergie were.

As to the question, I'd say Paul Merson. Always wants us to do well, still lives in the local area and I think his kids are villa fans.


Bosnich always falls over himself to gush about man utd when he's presenting the 'soccer' on fox sports. Never mentions the villa.

Yep that's spot on and it really boils my piss.

He talks about Man Utd alot but not that he barely played a full season as No 1 choice as was basically outed by Ferguson. 

The caption under his name is always former Man Utd and Chelsea (I think he played a total of 4 games in the League Cup for them).

He was once asked which Club's results he looked out for and replied. "Chelsea as I enjoyed my time there and loved the area".  Chelsea, FFS he never played...............

I couldn't fecking believe it.

Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: N'ZMAV on February 05, 2013, 11:36:55 AM
Houghton is a twat, can't listen to his waffle. He thinks that if you've never played the game you're not allowed an opinion on it. Wanker.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: JB1811 on February 05, 2013, 12:03:12 PM
Bosnich falls over himself to talk about utd when he is on fox
Quote
Because of our current plight, it seems anyone connected with football is eager to stick their two-bobs-worth in lately. What's struck me though is how many ex-associates of Villa,  be they player, manager or both, have such a great affinity for the club.

Do people really think this?

I can't help feeling when I hear Bozzy,Platt, Houghton, Ugo or Dwight Yorke etc. on v or radio how quick they're to have a pop at us. In fairness easy in our current plight but I remember a few of them having digs when we were finishing top 6.

Now compare that to Ray Houghton yesterday who said he was going to have a bet on Liverpool finishing top 4 this season! And the usual fawning whenever the topic goes to Liverpool or Man. United for some of the players above. Bizarre in Bosnich's case when you consider how difficult his spells at Man. United and with Fergie were.

As to the question, I'd say Paul Merson. Always wants us to do well, still lives in the local area and I think his kids are villa fans.


Bosnich always falls over himself to gush about man utd when he's presenting the 'soccer' on fox sports. Never mentions the villa.

Yep that's spot on and it really boils my piss.

He talks about Man Utd alot but not that he barely played a full season as No 1 choice as was basically outed by Ferguson. 

The caption under his name is always former Man Utd and Chelsea (I think he played a total of 4 games in the League Cup for them).

He was once asked which Club's results he looked out for and replied. "Chelsea as I enjoyed my time there and loved the area".  Chelsea, FFS he never played...............

I couldn't fecking believe it.


Perhaps it was the free time he enjoyed there, and being a 'big time Charlie' more than the football?
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on February 05, 2013, 12:03:33 PM
What about Sid?
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: markus209 on February 05, 2013, 12:07:40 PM
Martin Laursen always seems to have a lot of time for us.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: myf on February 05, 2013, 12:28:32 PM
Bosnich falls over himself to talk about utd when he is on fox
Quote
Because of our current plight, it seems anyone connected with football is eager to stick their two-bobs-worth in lately. What's struck me though is how many ex-associates of Villa,  be they player, manager or both, have such a great affinity for the club.

Do people really think this?

I can't help feeling when I hear Bozzy,Platt, Houghton, Ugo or Dwight Yorke etc. on v or radio how quick they're to have a pop at us. In fairness easy in our current plight but I remember a few of them having digs when we were finishing top 6.

Now compare that to Ray Houghton yesterday who said he was going to have a bet on Liverpool finishing top 4 this season! And the usual fawning whenever the topic goes to Liverpool or Man. United for some of the players above. Bizarre in Bosnich's case when you consider how difficult his spells at Man. United and with Fergie were.

As to the question, I'd say Paul Merson. Always wants us to do well, still lives in the local area and I think his kids are villa fans.


Bosnich always falls over himself to gush about man utd when he's presenting the 'soccer' on fox sports. Never mentions the villa.

Yep that's spot on and it really boils my piss.

He talks about Man Utd alot but not that he barely played a full season as No 1 choice as was basically outed by Ferguson. 

The caption under his name is always former Man Utd and Chelsea (I think he played a total of 4 games in the League Cup for them).

He was once asked which Club's results he looked out for and replied. "Chelsea as I enjoyed my time there and loved the area".  Chelsea, FFS he never played...............

I couldn't fecking believe it.


Perhaps it was the free time he enjoyed there, and being a 'big time Charlie' more than the football?

Exactly, and wasn't he filling in Sophie Anderton?
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: silhillvilla on February 05, 2013, 02:57:52 PM
Always thought Mark Walters would have more affinity to us having been an Aston lad. Perhaps that will return with old age ?
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: Lastfootstamper on February 05, 2013, 03:17:14 PM
Always thought Mark Walters would have more affinity to us having been an Aston lad. Perhaps that will return with old age ?

Wasn't aware of him having allegiances elsewhere. But then, thinking about it, I don't believe I've ever heard him speak. Sure he was one, when he was a kid, that used to sneak in for the last ten minutes when they used to open the exit gates. What colours does he nail to his mast, then? Please don't say red.....
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: PeterWithe on February 05, 2013, 04:04:22 PM
Have we ever tried to buy Trevor Francis ? Just interested to know

If memory serves there was paper talk about us being interested in him whilst he was at QPR, the crowd weren't entirely happy about that and gave him a fair bit of stick on his next visit to let the club know. He scored a hat-trick.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: LeeB on February 05, 2013, 04:07:24 PM
Have we ever tried to buy Trevor Francis ? Just interested to know

If memory serves there was paper talk about us being interested in him whilst he was at QPR, the crowd weren't entirely happy about that and gave him a fair bit of stick on his next visit to let the club know. He scored a hat-trick.

I was a bit too young to understand the bile that day, but I remember my brother being apoplectic.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: Chris Smith on February 05, 2013, 04:32:01 PM
Sir Graham.

While I do think he has a genuine affection for us, Watford are still his main squeeze.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: Walmley_Villa on February 05, 2013, 04:54:47 PM
Colin Gibson was my neighbour back in the early 90s (when he was at Leicester). When you walked into his house he had a Man Utd montage on one wall and Villa on the other. When I pressed him on his 'team' he told me that if you cut him open he would bleed claret and blue....

He also told me about a certain team 'mate' at Man Utd that he wouldn't have pissed on if he was on fire......(Tip - got in trouble for being photographed in his new side's shirt)....
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: silhillvilla on February 05, 2013, 05:53:52 PM
Always thought Mark Walters would have more affinity to us having been an Aston lad. Perhaps that will return with old age ?

Wasn't aware of him having allegiances elsewhere. But then, thinking about it, I don't believe I've ever heard him speak. Sure he was one, when he was a kid, that used to sneak in for the last ten minutes when they used to open the exit gates. What colours does he nail to his mast, then? Please don't say red.....
Yeah he used to sneak, didn't we all ?
He did have a red angle for years and rarely spoke about Villa. Not sure hes lived local since he left us? He was on TS the other day though talking about our plight and the feeling seems to be coming back. I've never seen him down the villa since he retired though
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: dave.woodhall on February 05, 2013, 05:58:20 PM
Always thought Mark Walters would have more affinity to us having been an Aston lad. Perhaps that will return with old age ?

Wasn't aware of him having allegiances elsewhere. But then, thinking about it, I don't believe I've ever heard him speak. Sure he was one, when he was a kid, that used to sneak in for the last ten minutes when they used to open the exit gates. What colours does he nail to his mast, then? Please don't say red.....
Yeah he used to sneak, didn't we all ?
He did have a red angle for years and rarely spoke about Villa. Not sure hes lived local since he left us? He was on TS the other day though talking about our plight and the feeling seems to be coming back. I've never seen him down the villa since he retired though

He used to be a regular when he first packed in playing. 
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: tomd2103 on February 05, 2013, 06:12:21 PM
Always thought Mark Walters would have more affinity to us having been an Aston lad. Perhaps that will return with old age ?

Wasn't aware of him having allegiances elsewhere. But then, thinking about it, I don't believe I've ever heard him speak. Sure he was one, when he was a kid, that used to sneak in for the last ten minutes when they used to open the exit gates. What colours does he nail to his mast, then? Please don't say red.....
Yeah he used to sneak, didn't we all ?
He did have a red angle for years and rarely spoke about Villa. Not sure hes lived local since he left us? He was on TS the other day though talking about our plight and the feeling seems to be coming back. I've never seen him down the villa since he retired though

He used to be a regular when he first packed in playing.

He plays (or certainly did play) for the Villa Old Stars.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: rob_bridge on February 05, 2013, 06:28:44 PM
Colin Gibson was my neighbour back in the early 90s (when he was at Leicester). When you walked into his house he had a Man Utd montage on one wall and Villa on the other. When I pressed him on his 'team' he told me that if you cut him open he would bleed claret and blue....

He also told me about a certain team 'mate' at Man Utd that he wouldn't have pissed on if he was on fire......(Tip - got in trouble for being photographed in his new side's shirt)....

Whoever could you be referring too.

Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: silhillvilla on February 05, 2013, 06:30:23 PM
According to his wiki page Walters is head coach of our under 14's ?
Also says he plays in the sky masters tournament for Rangers rather than us
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: PeterWithe on February 05, 2013, 07:54:56 PM
Colin Gibson was my neighbour back in the early 90s (when he was at Leicester). When you walked into his house he had a Man Utd montage on one wall and Villa on the other. When I pressed him on his 'team' he told me that if you cut him open he would bleed claret and blue....

He also told me about a certain team 'mate' at Man Utd that he wouldn't have pissed on if he was on fire......(Tip - got in trouble for being photographed in his new side's shirt)....

Whoever could you be referring too.

He was once nailed on to join us, according to someone who knew the milkman of an estate agents sister,  who showed him around houses in Lichfield
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: PeterWithe on February 05, 2013, 07:56:16 PM
Always thought Mark Walters would have more affinity to us having been an Aston lad. Perhaps that will return with old age ?

Wasn't aware of him having allegiances elsewhere. But then, thinking about it, I don't believe I've ever heard him speak. Sure he was one, when he was a kid, that used to sneak in for the last ten minutes when they used to open the exit gates. What colours does he nail to his mast, then? Please don't say red.....
Yeah he used to sneak, didn't we all ?
He did have a red angle for years and rarely spoke about Villa. Not sure hes lived local since he left us? He was on TS the other day though talking about our plight and the feeling seems to be coming back. I've never seen him down the villa since he retired though

He used to be a regular when he first packed in playing.

He plays (or certainly did play) for the Villa Old Stars.

I had a chat with him, Mark Burke and Lee Hendrie whilst watching a Villa game in Sutton, they had just played for the Old Stars and were gents to a man.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: SoccerHQ on February 05, 2013, 08:41:29 PM
Collymore
McInally
Froggatt
Merson
Sir Brian
Sir Graham
Ugo

The above all seem to have genuine feelings for the club.

Merson? He talks like someone who used to play for us nothing more.

Merson is certainly one of us imo considering he's probably more widely associated with Arsenal to the neutral fan.

Wasn't he in a box for one of the SHA games at VP and went totally mental when we scored?
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: rob_bridge on February 05, 2013, 08:52:30 PM
Colin Gibson was my neighbour back in the early 90s (when he was at Leicester). When you walked into his house he had a Man Utd montage on one wall and Villa on the other. When I pressed him on his 'team' he told me that if you cut him open he would bleed claret and blue....

He also told me about a certain team 'mate' at Man Utd that he wouldn't have pissed on if he was on fire......(Tip - got in trouble for being photographed in his new side's shirt)....



Whoever could you be referring too.

He was once nailed on to join us, according to someone who knew the milkman of an estate agents sister,  who showed him around houses in Lichfield

Was Ambrose Mendy with him?
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: silhillvilla on February 05, 2013, 09:12:37 PM
Merson is often referring to villa as "we" and "us" in GSS.
He don't refer to arsenal like that. Top man.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: Leighton on February 05, 2013, 10:12:29 PM
I've seen Walters a number of times in the posh section of the North upper this season.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: Pat McMahon on February 06, 2013, 01:35:26 AM
Sir Graham.

While I do think he has a genuine affection for us, Watford are still his main squeeze.

That has always been my take on GT too. He was brilliant in his first incarnation but Watford are the love of his life.

Similarly, McGrath for me has more affection for Man U than us.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: Matt C on February 06, 2013, 02:17:56 AM
Merson is often referring to villa as "we" and "us" in GSS.
He don't refer to arsenal like that. Top man.

I remember a glorious moment (one of several) during the 5-1 win against that lot when Merson could be seen just outside one of the executive boxes near the Holte joining in with a rendition of 'Easy', with quite some enthusiasm. Top man.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: silhillvilla on February 06, 2013, 08:08:07 AM
Always thought McGrath was more pro Villa than them. Whereas Yorke was the other way but has swung back a bit now.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: Seb_AVFC on February 06, 2013, 12:34:06 PM
McGrath supports Chelsea, doesn't he?

Craig Gardners obviously hates Villa  :o
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: Damo70 on February 06, 2013, 03:33:15 PM
I think McGrath prefers us to United as he was happier here. Also, despite spending longer at Watford SGT seems to prefer us too. Yorke seems a bit split. More years and started off here but more medals at United.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: silhillvilla on February 06, 2013, 04:43:39 PM
Sir Graham still lives in Sutton Coldfield I believe as does Paul "magic man" Merson
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: not3bad on February 06, 2013, 05:05:19 PM
I think McGrath prefers us to United as he was happier here. Also, despite spending longer at Watford SGT seems to prefer us too. Yorke seems a bit split. More years and started off here but more medals at United.

Has he expressed any regret for that stupid thing he said about SHA having the best fans?
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: peter w on February 06, 2013, 05:47:33 PM
I've seen Walters a number of times in the posh section of the North upper this season.

Really? The North stand had a posh section?
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: Damo70 on February 06, 2013, 05:48:15 PM
That was footballer speak for 'please like me and forget who I used to play for'. I'm guessing he's either forgotten he said it or would like to forget he said it. In  fact I'm guessing he would rather forget his whole time at Blues. Which was, er....forgetable.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: VillaAlways on February 06, 2013, 05:55:51 PM
Sir Graham still lives in Sutton Coldfield I believe as does Paul "magic man" Merson
Walked past Paul Merson in Sutton today
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: richtheholtender on February 06, 2013, 06:01:46 PM
I think Kyle Walker has a soft sport for us
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: barrysleftfoot on February 06, 2013, 07:06:18 PM

 Yorkie did say last season, when acting as a pundit, that he was a Villa fan.

 Houghton annoys me, you would think he never played for us.Still he did score in one of the best games i saw at VP.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: silhillvilla on February 06, 2013, 07:10:22 PM
Sir Graham still lives in Sutton Coldfield I believe as does Paul "magic man" Merson
Walked past Paul Merson in Sutton today
Near BetFred ?  ;)
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: Mister E on February 06, 2013, 07:12:30 PM
Dion Dublin
Although the media always seem to introduce him as "former ManUre player" (even though he barely played a dozen games of them because of his leg-break).
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: Dave Cooper please on February 06, 2013, 08:45:49 PM
I've seen Walters a number of times in the posh section of the North upper this season.

Really? The North stand had a posh section?

It does, I was sat in there next to Bernie Gallacher on the Birchy fund raising day.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: jeowje on February 07, 2013, 07:49:31 AM
Regarding Adrian Durham saying that us winning the European Cup was the greatest achievement by an English club, does no one else take that as rather patronising, almost a veiled insult? Considering that Nottingham Forest won it the two years previously? (probably just because it came from his mouth). I think there might be a better argument for Liverpool 2005
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: robbo1874 on February 07, 2013, 08:10:55 AM
My thoughts exactly.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: Lee on February 07, 2013, 12:29:33 PM
Houghton is a twat, can't listen to his waffle. He thinks that if you've never played the game you're not allowed an opinion on it. Wanker.

Which is an opnion that I once had of him, and him brushing me aside at BHX a fair few moons ago. However, on meeting him in Dublin about 4 years ago, he actually spoke quite highly of his time at Villa and was very approachable
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: Damo70 on February 07, 2013, 05:01:33 PM
Just to pick up on the points made about Bosnich, Yorke and Dublin. If they want to open doors to media work and impress people they play the 'ex Man U' card. Whereas if Paul McGrath ever wanted to impress people he could say 'I'm Paul McGrath'.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: Charlie8182 on February 07, 2013, 06:04:04 PM
Quote
I've seen Walters a number of times in the posh section of the North upper this season.


I've seen Mark Walters several times outside the ground on matchdays in the past few years, along with Garry Thompson who I see every now and again at VP.
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: peter w on February 07, 2013, 08:29:42 PM
Regarding Adrian Durham saying that us winning the European Cup was the greatest achievement by an English club, does no one else take that as rather patronising, almost a veiled insult? Considering that Nottingham Forest won it the two years previously? (probably just because it came from his mouth). I think there might be a better argument for Liverpool 2005
I think not...

He goes on to say

"Villa had to sell players, they then won the title in 1981 and after their manager, Ron Saunders, walked out mid-season they then won the European Cup under Tony Barton.
English champions, and then conquerors of Europe".

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2267459/Adrian-Durham-column-Hazard-ballboy-Leon-Britton-Arsenal-Villa-Newcastle.html#axzz2KFNSGXvT



Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: Leighton on February 07, 2013, 10:33:49 PM
I've seen Walters a number of times in the posh section of the North upper this season.

Really? The North stand had a posh section?

It still has. It's the "A".
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: Dave Clark Five on February 07, 2013, 10:39:12 PM
Quote
I've seen Walters a number of times in the posh section of the North upper this season.


I've seen Mark Walters several times outside the ground on matchdays in the past few years, along with Garry Thompson who I see every now and again at VP.

Funny thing is, a few years ago Charlie Aitken was the only Villa ex-player (now known as Legends). These days, he is never a Legend but just turns up in his van. Garry Thompson is a regular guest but what are they doing choosing Hodge?
Title: Re: Players / Managers that have become Villa fans
Post by: mike on February 09, 2013, 07:28:35 AM
Regarding Adrian Durham saying that us winning the European Cup was the greatest achievement by an English club, does no one else take that as rather patronising, almost a veiled insult? Considering that Nottingham Forest won it the two years previously? (probably just because it came from his mouth). I think there might be a better argument for Liverpool 2005
I think not...

He goes on to say

"Villa had to sell players, they then won the title in 1981 and after their manager, Ron Saunders, walked out mid-season they then won the European Cup under Tony Barton.
English champions, and then conquerors of Europe".

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2267459/Adrian-Durham-column-Hazard-ballboy-Leon-Britton-Arsenal-Villa-Newcastle.html#axzz2KFNSGXvT





Having read the link, he is nothing but complimentary about the Villa.
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