Heroes & Villains, the Aston Villa fanzine

Heroes & Villains => Match Threads & Player Ratings => Topic started by: Dave on December 27, 2013, 08:15:36 AM

Title: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Dave on December 27, 2013, 08:15:36 AM
Games coming thick and fast - 31 hours until the next game.

Swansea seem to have rested a load of their bigger name players (Bony, Chico, Hernandez, De Guzman) so they would be fresh for our game. Lovely.

Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: rob_bridge on December 27, 2013, 08:17:43 AM
Games coming thick and fast - 31 hours until the next game.

Swansea seem to have rested a load of their bigger name players (Bony, Chico, Hernandez, De Guzman) so they would be fresh for our game. Lovely.

Yup and looks like they put up a decent show yesterday.

We are going to lose - if Vlaar is still out by a fairly substantial margain.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eastie on December 27, 2013, 08:28:21 AM
0-2 sadly.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: lovejoy on December 27, 2013, 08:29:11 AM
0-2.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: VinnieChase84 on December 27, 2013, 08:31:19 AM
I only know we will score 0 and they will score more
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: russon on December 27, 2013, 08:42:19 AM
hats off to all those brave enough to turn up for another slice of Christmas cheer Villa style. It'll be armagedon down there if we go two down by half-time, which I predict we will.

0-3.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: aj2k77 on December 27, 2013, 08:48:47 AM
I'm relying on us being their bogey side. That's all I've got.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: simboy on December 27, 2013, 08:59:32 AM
0-2 and "we go again"
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Deano's Mullet on December 27, 2013, 09:00:58 AM
No chance. 0-3
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Tony Erdington on December 27, 2013, 09:04:19 AM
On the Brightside, when we get slapped surely people at the club will realise this project aint working and act!

then again maybe not. :'(

pauls swan song ::)
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: ROBBO on December 27, 2013, 09:08:30 AM
It could get nasty by half time.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Villafirst on December 27, 2013, 09:10:50 AM
0-3 to complete another awful Christmas. Hopefully Lambert's last game in charge.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: rob_bridge on December 27, 2013, 09:13:45 AM
I'm relying on us being their bogey side. That's all I've got.

I saw us play Swansea 2 seasons ago and they battered us 2-0 at Villa Park.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: aj2k77 on December 27, 2013, 09:17:37 AM
I'm relying on us being their bogey side. That's all I've got.

We are on a 2 game unbeaten streak against them :) that's all I have to cling to!

I saw us play Swansea 2 seasons ago and they battered us 2-0 at Villa Park.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: andyh on December 27, 2013, 09:21:38 AM
I hate to say it, but I reckon we'll be played off the park.

0-3 Swansea.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: saunders_heroes on December 27, 2013, 09:51:22 AM
By hook or by crook we need a win. Just throw everything at them and hope for the best!
1-0 to Villa. (Please god)
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: phantom limb on December 27, 2013, 09:51:56 AM
Talk about a "must win" game for Lambert. Swansea are better at playing football than us, have a better squad than us, can score goals and appear to have a much better manager.

So unless we employ some kind of pre-game black magic ritual, I can only see 0-3 Swansea and a P45 being launched at Lambert's head as he trundles off down the tunnel. What a mess.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Clampy on December 27, 2013, 09:53:04 AM
Talk about a "must win" game for Lambert. Swansea are better at playing football than us, have a better squad than us, can score goals and appear to have a much better manager.


All that said, they're only a point ahead of us.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Tayls_7 on December 27, 2013, 09:56:33 AM
Terrible performances are all we have in us at the moment. Largely due to the level of players available but also because their heads have dropped. The best we can hope for is a draw but I am expecting defeat. Teams have come to realise if they give us a fair share of time on the ball we have little hope of breaking them down and at some point it is highly likely we will shoot ourselves in the foot making it an easy afternoons work for them. Baker and Luna will have mares. The midfield will be so utterly ineffective that the crowd will die a million deaths through humiliation and blood pressure inducing frustration. After booing Lambert down the tunnel you will be treated to further inane ramblings from him about not faulting the lads commitment, how we were in the game until their second took the wind out of our sails. How injuries are hurting us but we must go on. Some of our more optimistic fans will come on here giving their player ratings. While other Premier league fans are waxing lyrical about Suarez, Toure and Ramsey they will be trying to drag up some compliment about Kozak 's effort or Delph's England potential. Lambert despite knowing he has lost his way will have no intention of walking and you will hear absolutely nothing from Faulkner or Lerner. Many will be forced to die of stress related causes while the unlucky Villains who remain will be hypothetically kicked in the nuts for at least another ten years. Am I wrong?
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: phantom limb on December 27, 2013, 10:00:43 AM
Talk about a "must win" game for Lambert. Swansea are better at playing football than us, have a better squad than us, can score goals and appear to have a much better manager.


All that said, they're only a point ahead of us.

Blimey, you're right. Admittedly I haven't watched them much this season so I'm surprised at that.

I know some Swansea fans who hate Lambert with a passion as his teams always do well against them, but after that loss against Palace yesterday I'm really worried about this game.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Malandro on December 27, 2013, 10:02:02 AM
I'm not sure where my confidence comes from (my predictions are usually wrong) but I'm certain they are going to rip us a new anus
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: silhillvilla on December 27, 2013, 10:02:55 AM
Think I'm going to need at least 4 pints in the Pub pre game maybe a couple of shorts too to see me through this one. Then a hot dog and pie and diet coke at half time.
At least Westwood is back so we can drop the hapless KEA.
1-0 home win.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Legion on December 27, 2013, 10:10:49 AM
Games coming thick and fast - 31 hours until the next game.

Swansea seem to have rested a load of their bigger name players (Bony, Chico, Hernandez, De Guzman) so they would be fresh for our game. Lovely.



If we now win, you're in charge of these for the rest of the season.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Richard on December 27, 2013, 10:12:25 AM
Guzan

Lowton
Clark
Baker

Tonev
Westwood
Delph
Bacuna
Albrighton

Gabby
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Richard on December 27, 2013, 10:13:56 AM
Oh and helenius
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Tayls_7 on December 27, 2013, 10:15:06 AM
Guzan

Lowton
Clark
Baker

Tonev
Westwood
Delph
Bacuna
Albrighton

Gabby

10 men Rich. Good call.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Walmley_Villa on December 27, 2013, 10:16:52 AM
How about we play Weimann up front, he is a striker and not a winger. Kojak and Weimann in a 2 up front with Gabby and Marc wide?
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Richard on December 27, 2013, 10:18:40 AM
I chucked in the forgotten man helenius because I am sick of seeing Weimann and Bowery and kozak was poor yesterday
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: olaftab on December 27, 2013, 10:22:32 AM
Games coming thick and fast - 31 hours until the next game.

Swansea seem to have rested a load of their bigger name players (Bony, Chico, Hernandez, De Guzman) so they would be fresh for our game. Lovely.
Both Bony and Chico are injured.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Tayls_7 on December 27, 2013, 10:31:01 AM
I think Lambert will start with ....

Guzan

1st division lightweight
Gangly disaster waiting to happen
Youth product not quite there
Spanish clown

Delph
Overrated 1st division functional
Dutch league reject
Over relied on foreign youth player chronically out of form

Championship standard hard working target man
Gabby

Subs

Chesterfield
Groningen
Villa youth
Villa youth
Who gives a f##k

Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: silhillvilla on December 27, 2013, 10:33:28 AM
How about we play Weimann up front, he is a striker and not a winger. Kojak and Weimann in a 2 up front with Gabby and Marc wide?
Weimann should be left at home a few weeks and should reflect on his actions towards the fans.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eastie on December 27, 2013, 10:37:11 AM
How about we play Weimann up front, he is a striker and not a winger. Kojak and Weimann in a 2 up front with Gabby and Marc wide?

Would get pissed on in midfield and totally overrun - Weimann shouldn't be near the team on current form either.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Uknowthescore on December 27, 2013, 10:38:51 AM
Unfortunately I am going to this one, can't see anything but a defeat
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Legion on December 27, 2013, 10:39:59 AM
If we lose, the orange dot's coming back for Sunderland.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Walmley_Villa on December 27, 2013, 10:40:33 AM
I just think we should play them in their correct position as Lambert is in danger of doing he same as O'Neill. However, if AW is gesticulating at fans he should be reprimanded.

Let's face it, we are a shambles.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eastie on December 27, 2013, 10:41:00 AM
If we lose, the orange dot's coming back for Sunderland.

Need Butler and his prayer mat :(
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Concrete John on December 27, 2013, 10:49:51 AM
It's when we are expecting to lose we usually pull out a performance.

1-0 Villa and I couldn't care less who gets it.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Jimbo on December 27, 2013, 10:50:11 AM
Lambert knows that this is his big chance to get the fans back on his side. A convincing win will achieve that. Sadly, with injuries, too many under-performing players and a demoralised squad, it's going to be a very tough ask. One thing in our favour will be Swansea's propensity to play football ( who do they think they are?).

They might retain the lion’s share of possession, allowing us to play the counter attacking game, the only game we appear able to play. If Laudrup has any sense, he'll let us have as much of the ball as we want (which usually means squaring it in our own half before hoofing and losing it), then they can nick their goals on the break.

Freak results do happen, so with a slice of luck this is winnable. I just can't see it. 0-2.

p.s. Weimann needs dropping, and reminding of his position at the club. Culverhouse needs to apologise pronto, mainly about the awful, dreary football we're playing, then about his little indiscretion.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: citizenDJ on December 27, 2013, 10:54:12 AM
The major worry for this one is that Swansea could pass us off the park and make us look particularly foolish. There again, we could pull off a surprise, close them down, hassle them all over the pitch and snatch a win.

Football is never overly-logical, but I think Swansea will win this fairly easily, the crowd will seriously give some stick and Lambert will get his marching orders or resign shortly after.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Goldie.7 on December 27, 2013, 10:54:18 AM
1-1 or 0-2 loss. A win is highly unlikely.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Walmley_Villa on December 27, 2013, 11:11:54 AM
The major worry for this one is that Swansea could pass us off the park and make us look particularly foolish. There again, we could pull off a surprise, close them down, hassle them all over the pitch and snatch a win.

Football is never overly-logical, but I think Swansea will win this fairly easily, the crowd will seriously give some stick and Lambert will get his marching orders or resign shortly after.

That 'hassling' them all over the pitch is the one thing really missing from our game this season. We need to get back at it and get the crowd back onside.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: mrfuse on December 27, 2013, 11:19:25 AM
Not a hope in hell I'm afraid.
At least last season we at times played  some decent football, this season we don't have any redeeming qualities.

I don't even want to go Saturday and I still might not bother.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: levico on December 27, 2013, 11:23:09 AM
Terrible performances are all we have in us at the moment. Largely due to the level of players available but also because their heads have dropped. The best we can hope for is a draw but I am expecting defeat. Teams have come to realise if they give us a fair share of time on the ball we have little hope of breaking them down and at some point it is highly likely we will shoot ourselves in the foot making it an easy afternoons work for them. Baker and Luna will have mares. The midfield will be so utterly ineffective that the crowd will die a million deaths through humiliation and blood pressure inducing frustration. After booing Lambert down the tunnel you will be treated to further inane ramblings from him about not faulting the lads commitment, how we were in the game until their second took the wind out of our sails. How injuries are hurting us but we must go on. Some of our more optimistic fans will come on here giving their player ratings. While other Premier league fans are waxing lyrical about Suarez, Toure and Ramsey they will be trying to drag up some compliment about Kozak 's effort or Delph's England potential. Lambert despite knowing he has lost his way will have no intention of walking and you will hear absolutely nothing from Faulkner or Lerner. Many will be forced to die of stress related causes while the unlucky Villains who remain will be hypothetically kicked in the nuts for at least another ten years. Am I wrong?

No you are spot on. We know this will happen but it will still be very painful.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: levico on December 27, 2013, 11:26:23 AM
We won't score and Swansea will cruise past us with ease.

Our descent looks unstoppable. If and when Benteke and Vlar return and get back to form it might be too late.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: VillaAlways on December 27, 2013, 11:26:53 AM
Swansea have had some poor results of late. There is simply no better team that they could wish to play to get them back on track.

0-4
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Leicester_Villian on December 27, 2013, 11:43:00 AM
I am seriously considering having a Saturday afternoon at home ...not sure I can take another 90 minutes of the rubbish we are turning out ....

Yesterday was worse than ever ....MOTD showed one clip from the first half and that summed it up ...

My guess is the only certain thing is that we will score NIL !

Depressing or what?
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: paulcomben on December 27, 2013, 11:49:08 AM
I'm relying on us being their bogey side. That's all I've got.

I saw us play Swansea 2 seasons ago and they battered us 2-0 at Villa Park.

Me too. In fact, Warnock gifted them their first goal horribly.

And last season, we won 2-0 in one of our best performances before February. High tempo passing and Ireland had a good game. I know! Freak occurence.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: jeowje on December 27, 2013, 11:53:34 AM
Surely we cant lose again? Difficult to imagine much else but lets get behind the team, and banish the deathly spectre of relegation that seems to be emerging.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Pete3206 on December 27, 2013, 11:54:22 AM
Key players missing, no leaders on the field, zero confidence, tactically clueless manager and the return of the creeping malaise in the stands.

0-3

Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: BoskoDjembaSalifou on December 27, 2013, 12:27:13 PM
At least Westwood is back so we can drop the hapless KEA.

Is Westwood much better than El Ahmadi? Not in my eyes.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: rob_bridge on December 27, 2013, 12:30:22 PM
At least Westwood is back so we can drop the hapless KEA.

Is Westwood much better than El Ahmadi? Not in my eyes.


Maybe ever so slightly. Maybe.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Legion on December 27, 2013, 12:32:08 PM
I think he is.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Malandro on December 27, 2013, 12:32:30 PM
Clueless at the back, weak in midfield but with a half decent attack. Unfortunately our forwards only see the ball when it is rocketed up pitch by Guzan.

We are woeful, embarrassing and headed for the drop.

If injuries deprive us of Benteke and Vlaar for any longer we will be at the foot of the table in two months.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: villasjf on December 27, 2013, 12:38:10 PM
Key players missing, no leaders on the field, zero confidence, tactically clueless manager and the return of the creeping malaise in the stands.

0-3



Ah leadership, Gabby is never captain material we need someone with a presence and a voice, we dont seem to have that without Vlaar.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Legion on December 27, 2013, 12:44:29 PM
New issue out on Saturday.

(https://scontent-a-lhr.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/s526x395/1528705_769914039702823_445005875_n.jpg)
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Legion on December 27, 2013, 12:44:47 PM
Give the captaincy to Guzan.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: supertom on December 27, 2013, 12:45:49 PM
I ended up avoiding watching the palace might, so as not to spoil the xmas atmos. Think I'll avoid watching this. I really don't want to be in a stinking mood.
We're going to get battered. Swansea are a better side with a much better manager. They had a disappointing start, but are warming up now. A better squad too.
How sad is it that it's come to this? Teams like Southampton and Swansea comfortably above us. Before anyone says Swansea are only a point above, I think they'll be 4 points above tomorrow evening, and well shot of us by may. Better squad, some sort of gameplan, and players now hitting form. We're an utter shambles.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Legion on December 27, 2013, 12:46:29 PM
We'll either get turned over big-style here if we perform like we did on Thursday or we'll adopt the usual Villa approach of pulling something out of the bag when least expected.

2-0 Villa win.

Agbonlahor 4
Bowery 89
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: PaulWinch again on December 27, 2013, 12:47:34 PM
This really is getting to must win territory.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: andyh on December 27, 2013, 12:51:05 PM
Key players missing, no leaders on the field, zero confidence, tactically clueless manager and the return of the creeping malaise in the stands.

0-3



Ah leadership, Gabby is never captain material we need someone with a presence and a voice, we dont seem to have that without Vlaar.
I said exactly this yesterday.
Gabby does not lead, and does not lead by example.
Delph would be my choice....at least he appears to care.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: BoskoDjembaSalifou on December 27, 2013, 12:55:32 PM
Give the captaincy to Guzan.

Yep. He's our most vocal player by far.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: aj2k77 on December 27, 2013, 01:14:20 PM
We could do with a centre back and centre mid like Guzan. Someone who opens his bloody mouth and tries to organise the headless rabble about them.

I remember a team full of captains. Staunton, Teale, Richardson and Houghton all big talkers and backed up by Bosnich and Mcgrath.

 Now we have a team full of shrinking violets, nice, quiet, hard working, young and hungry losers.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Karlos96 on December 27, 2013, 01:21:53 PM
3-0 Swansea they're going to play us off the park.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: citizenDJ on December 27, 2013, 01:23:36 PM
At least Westwood is back so we can drop the hapless KEA.

Is Westwood much better than El Ahmadi? Not in my eyes.

I think he is. He's been awful this year but last season he showed he has got potential. El Ahmadi just looks plain out of his depth.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Damo70 on December 27, 2013, 01:30:46 PM
We look a shambles and the atmosphere will be moody. Swansea have underachieved this season due to their fixture list but rested a load of players yesterday. I cannot think of one reason to say we will win. Except for the old 'you never know/football is a funny old game'.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: JUAN PABLO on December 27, 2013, 01:31:08 PM
Guzan

Lowton
Clark
Baker

Tonev
Westwood
Delph
Bacuna
Albrighton

Gabby


sad thing is , that looks like a championship team
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: aj2k77 on December 27, 2013, 01:35:53 PM
Guzan

Lowton
Clark
Baker

Tonev
Westwood
Delph
Bacuna
Albrighton

Gabby


sad thing is , that looks like a championship team

It's absolute shite.

4 academy players
3 players from the 3rd tier
1 free signing
1 from the polish league
1 from the dutch league

Garbage team. It's also only 10 men, gotta lump another donkey in unfortunately.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Matt Collins on December 27, 2013, 01:37:43 PM
Swansea have had more possession than any side this season, and we've had least bar crystal palace

So I'm pretty confident we'll be passed off the park. But as with Southampton and citeh, it's possible this may suit us and we can exploit them on the break

However, I do think it's got 0-2 written all over it

Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Damo70 on December 27, 2013, 01:37:52 PM
Guzan

Lowton
Clark
Baker

Tonev
Westwood
Delph
Bacuna
Albrighton

Gabby


sad thing is , that looks like a championship team


It's also a team that was very much second best to another team that looks like a championship team yesterday.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Clampy on December 27, 2013, 01:39:15 PM
I'd throw Bacuna and Gardner into the midfield with Delph and have Gabby and Albrighton either side of Kozak.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Matt Collins on December 27, 2013, 01:39:51 PM
Guzan

Lowton
Clark
Baker

Tonev
Westwood
Delph
Bacuna
Albrighton

Gabby


sad thing is , that looks like a championship team

I think it's possibly the worst team I've ever seen suggested on a pre match thread on the basis that:

1) it's only got ten players
2) most of those players are pretty shit
3) it's a nonsensical formation with Tonev and albrighton as wing backs
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: JUAN PABLO on December 27, 2013, 01:41:04 PM
Guzan

Lowton
Clark
Baker

Tonev
Westwood
Delph
Bacuna
Albrighton

Gabby


sad thing is , that looks like a championship team

It's absolute shite.

4 academy players
3 players from the 3rd tier
1 free signing
1 from the polish league
1 from the dutch league

Garbage team. It's also only 10 men, gotta lump another donkey in unfortunately.

10 11 or 12 , dont make much difference ;)
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: WarszaVillan on December 27, 2013, 01:42:11 PM
I'm taking my daughter to the game tomorrow, we only get over for one or two a season. Her record so far: four games, four losses, three managers
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Damo70 on December 27, 2013, 01:42:29 PM
We played with just a goalkeeper and no outfield players yesterday. Luckily the keeper kept it to only 0-1.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: sirlordbaltimore on December 27, 2013, 01:51:03 PM

I got a free ticket for tomorrows match for filling in a questionnaire. I've given it away though as yesterday was the final straw, it's supposed to an enjoyable time of year
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: john e on December 27, 2013, 02:08:49 PM
this is another one of those winnable games, we cant fail
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: caster troy on December 27, 2013, 02:10:04 PM
I've only just realised this is tomorrow, for some reason I thought I had another day to mentally prepare. Gutted.

I can't see us scoring so it'll be 0-1, 0-2, 0-3 or 0-4 depending on how well Swansea play.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: walsall villain on December 27, 2013, 02:14:43 PM
This is the first home game this year that I can't make and, worryingly, I am quite relieved.
I would change formation and risk giving debuts to one or two youngsters because I can't see the team I saw yesterday doing anything but losing
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Steve kirk on December 27, 2013, 02:22:42 PM
This is the first home game this year that I can't make and, worryingly, I am quite relieved.
I would change formation and risk giving debuts to one or two youngsters because I can't see the team I saw yesterday doing anything but losing


I agree what have we got to lose by making changes, start Gardner and Hellenius, play anybody but Luna, lets try some fringe players and see what they can do.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eamonn on December 27, 2013, 02:23:11 PM
Let's make this precious (I think we probably won't) but....1-0 in a result to shock the unshockables.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Brend'Watkins on December 27, 2013, 02:34:45 PM
Same as always, we can't score and can't defend. Only one outcome I'm afraid. The one thing on our side is that Lambert has a good record against Swansea but I'm clutching at straws with that.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Des Little on December 27, 2013, 02:58:00 PM
Please give Gardner a go, Lambert. And drop Weimann as well.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Can Gana Be Bettered!?!? on December 27, 2013, 03:01:35 PM
4-4-2

Guzan

Lowton
Herd
Clark
Luna

Bacuna
Gardner
Delph
Tonev

Gabby
Kozak
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: PeterWithesShin on December 27, 2013, 03:29:11 PM
Every bit of logic says we will lose. We tend to do the exact opposite of what I expect us to this season. So I'm predicitng a defeat as I really do think we'll lose. So we'll probably win.

Confused? You won't be after this weeks episode of Villa.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: JUAN PABLO on December 27, 2013, 03:38:49 PM
the  thing is even Grelish would be better than tonev for eg  and Gardner can not be worse than KEA
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: PeterWithesShin on December 27, 2013, 03:43:33 PM
P.s. start The Gladiator instead of Weimann. Even if he only has one working leg he cannot contribute any less than  Andi does at the moment.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Hoppo on December 27, 2013, 03:56:38 PM
We need fans tomorrow.. Not people who moan about not going and people who give free tickets away.
Some on here wouldn't go if Randy gave you a limo with Legs 11 girls on tap.
Some just don't want to go but feel the need to tell everyone else.
As for the game just show passion Villa..
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Tugby Villain on December 27, 2013, 04:26:50 PM
Next 3 Games:
Swansea (home)
Sunderland (away)
Sheffield United (home)

If we lose all three, Mumbles has to go.  Happy Days
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: JUAN PABLO on December 27, 2013, 04:35:43 PM
We need fans tomorrow.. Not people who moan about not going and people who give free tickets away.
Some on here wouldn't go if Randy gave you a limo with Legs 11 girls on tap.
Some just don't want to go but feel the need to tell everyone else.
As for the game just show passion Villa..

I think the fans have been brilliant and gave Lambert a lot of time and most backed him even after that Bradford rubbish , the 8-0 , 3-0 at home to wigan , cup defeat against Millwall , i can go on and on but the fans have always been supportive.

Like you say , its about time the players and management showed some bloody passion , because the fans cant keep putting up with the dross.

Villa could win tomorrow , its one of those games that we might win after that Palace rubbish and Lambert does well against Swansea .

 it will only cover the cracks until the next game   , we have not enough quality but I want us to stay in this league and want 3 points like every one else .

3 points please Villa  .   any how just 3 pts ....



Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: manic-road on December 27, 2013, 04:45:38 PM
0-3 And another abject display.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Des Little on December 27, 2013, 04:56:42 PM
Let's keep our ambitions realistic. A first half goal?
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eastie on December 27, 2013, 04:58:23 PM
Let's keep our ambitions realistic. A first half goal?

Three consecutive passes over 10 yards?
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Legion on December 27, 2013, 05:00:10 PM
A forward pass to a player in the same colour shirt?
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Hoppo on December 27, 2013, 05:01:23 PM
Juan Pablo. The fans who go have been patient beyond belief. We have got rid of that 'fickle' reputation.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: supertom on December 27, 2013, 05:11:55 PM
I don't see us pulling off another Southampton/Man City where we come away with 30% possession and 3 shots on target but somehow win the game (3-2). Games like that happen rarely and we've done it twice already this season. I think we've used up our jammy/inconceivable wins quota for the time being.

It would be nice to repeat this fixture from last year. Fairly routine and comfortable home win. But I suspect Swansea will have too much quality and we are fecking awful.

I think to myself sometimes about what team I'd play. You type it out, and it just looks shit.
I'll try.
Guzan, Delph, Gabby and then make up the rest from an interchangeable mix of woefully off form, or simply nowhere near (and never will be) good enough for this level. Our squad really is a sorry state.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: PeterWithesShin on December 27, 2013, 05:12:31 PM
A Villa goal in front of the North Stand would be nice.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: SoccerHQ on December 27, 2013, 05:12:36 PM
1-1.

But it will feel like a defeat as can see us being in the lead and conceding in the last 5 minutes to someone like Shelvey.

Looking at the team Swansea put out v Chesea, they rested first choice players like Chico, De Guzman and Bony and only lost 1 nil.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: dl9 on December 27, 2013, 05:18:01 PM
Our only realistic chance of success is to find out which hotel Swansea are staying at and poison them all. I've got some salmon in the fridge that's gone off, tell me where they're at and I'll get it sent up there.

Failing that, we're doomed, DOOMED I tell thee!!

WE'RE ALL DOOOOOOOOOOOMMMMEEDD!!

Worst case, we'll stillbe above the Blues at 5pm so I'm clinging onto that.
 
SOTC.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: rougegorge on December 27, 2013, 05:32:57 PM
A Villa goal in front of the North Stand would be nice.

Yes, over 7 months since one was scored in the league. 

The bookies seem to think it will be close. Unfortunately I don't.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: SoccerHQ on December 27, 2013, 05:46:31 PM
I believe we'll see midfield changes, think Bacuna will be in there somewhere and I'd be tempted to throw Gardner in and see if he can last an hour. I'd go for a midfield 4 of Delph-Westwood-Gardner with Bacuna playing wide to try to squeeze Swansea.

Have Gabby just off Kozak. Albrighton the unlucky man. Weimann has no business being in the starting 11.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: curlytailavfc on December 27, 2013, 05:49:11 PM
0-3 cant see any other answer
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: russon on December 27, 2013, 05:58:58 PM
0-3 cant see any other answer
i can, 0-4
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: pooligan on December 27, 2013, 06:08:30 PM
I can't even see where the next goal is coming from let alone points Villa 0 Swansea 1
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Tayls_7 on December 27, 2013, 06:16:33 PM
God what is wrong with you lot. Pull yourselves together.
Of course we will score a goal. Maybe not today, maybe not tomorrow, but soon and for the rest of our remaining cup ties.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: paulcomben on December 27, 2013, 06:17:16 PM
I'm taking my daughter to the game tomorrow, we only get over for one or two a season. Her record so far: four games, four losses, three managers

Could she play left back?
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Des Little on December 27, 2013, 06:19:40 PM
I'm taking my daughter to the game tomorrow, we only get over for one or two a season. Her record so far: four games, four losses, three managers

Could she play left back?

To be fair, anyone's attendance stats over the past 3 years would make horror reading. That said, we'll shit 'em tomorrow 3-1.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: richtheholtender on December 27, 2013, 06:20:31 PM
0-3
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: taylorsworkrate on December 27, 2013, 06:21:26 PM
God what is wrong with you lot. Pull yourselves together.
Of course we will score a goal. Maybe not today, maybe not tomorrow, but soon and for the rest of our remaining cup ties.

Lovely stuff!
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Tayls_7 on December 27, 2013, 06:24:30 PM
God what is wrong with you lot. Pull yourselves together.
Of course we will score a goal. Maybe not today, maybe not tomorrow, but soon and for the rest of our remaining cup ties.

Lovely stuff!

Thank you. God bless all of us. It is going to be painful.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Richard C on December 27, 2013, 07:32:15 PM
A draw tomorrow then 4 more defeats and PL will be gone, or was that BFR, it could happen again.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Steve67 on December 27, 2013, 08:14:00 PM
Villa simply HAVE to score first, for lots of reasons. Break this stupid duck of not having score a goal at VP in the first half of the game too. I see a draw. 1-1.  I hope I am wrong and we snatch it.  Don't care how.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Chris Jameson on December 27, 2013, 08:29:08 PM
2-1 to Villa. The 'we go again' speech will have fired them up.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Steve kirk on December 27, 2013, 08:40:14 PM
We have to try something different but we dont have many options so I would go for
                                            Guzan
                 Lowton       Clark      Baker     Herd
                 Bacuna      Gardner  Delph   Albrighton
                                Hellenius  Agbonlahor
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: danlanza on December 27, 2013, 08:47:43 PM
74.3% go for a Swansea win.
Get a fucking grip and back the team ffs.
Villa 3-0.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eastie on December 27, 2013, 08:51:22 PM
74.3% go for a Swansea win.
Get a fucking grip and back the team ffs.
Villa 3-0.

That's torn it - every time you back us to win we lose danny boy and now you've done it again :(
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eastie on December 27, 2013, 08:52:56 PM
We have to try something different but we dont have many options so I would go for
                                            Guzan
                 Lowton       Clark      Baker     Herd
                 Bacuna      Gardner  Delph   Albrighton
                                Hellenius  Agbonlahor

I think Kozak is our best hope for a goal - he needs to play , don't think herd at left back would cut the mustard either .
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: walsall villain on December 27, 2013, 08:54:06 PM
74.3% go for a Swansea win.
Get a fucking grip and back the team ffs.
Villa 3-0.
Well it's hardly a shock. Lost six at home, drawn one which we could have lost, won two including man c which we should have lost. Seen all nine and we only deserved to win one, Cardiff, who never looked like scoring against us.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Des Little on December 27, 2013, 08:55:10 PM
Sod it, I'll start it off. Boooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!!!!!
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: silhillvilla on December 27, 2013, 08:56:26 PM
Wonder when the banners will start appearing (searches airing cupboard for old bed sheet)
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Des Little on December 27, 2013, 08:57:50 PM
Mine's ready.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Steve kirk on December 27, 2013, 08:58:44 PM
We have to try something different but we dont have many options so I would go for
                                            Guzan
                 Lowton       Clark      Baker     Herd
                 Bacuna      Gardner  Delph   Albrighton
                                Hellenius  Agbonlahor

I think Kozak is our best hope for a goal - he needs to play , don't think herd at left back would cut the mustard either .


Fair enough Eastie but none of us know anything about Hellenius so he may also have something to offer but we just need to find out, as for left back I am now thinking anyone but Luna.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Des Little on December 27, 2013, 09:01:03 PM
The left back situ is this years right back dilemma, I.e. they're all useless
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eastie on December 27, 2013, 09:02:06 PM
We have to try something different but we dont have many options so I would go for
                                            Guzan
                 Lowton       Clark      Baker     Herd
                 Bacuna      Gardner  Delph   Albrighton
                                Hellenius  Agbonlahor

I think Kozak is our best hope for a goal - he needs to play , don't think herd at left back would cut the mustard either .


Fair enough Eastie but none of us know anything about Hellenius so he may also have something to offer but we just need to find out, as for left back I am now thinking anyone but Luna.


I agree helenius needs game time - gabby and Weimann have one league goal each this season - I'd even be tempted to give helenius a start maybe just behind Kozak- his movement and flick ons impressed me in pre season and he set up a couple of goals with his build up play.

I find it odd that Bowery seems to be rated higher than him to be honest.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: andyh on December 27, 2013, 09:02:42 PM
We have to try something different but we dont have many options so I would go for
                                            Guzan
                 Lowton       Clark      Baker     Herd
                 Bacuna      Gardner  Delph   Albrighton
                                Hellenius  Agbonlahor
Certainly not having a go at the poster, but when you see it laid bare like that, bloody hell our squad is poor.
That is something you'd expect to see in division 1.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Steve kirk on December 27, 2013, 09:07:45 PM
We have to try something different but we dont have many options so I would go for
                                            Guzan
                 Lowton       Clark      Baker     Herd
                 Bacuna      Gardner  Delph   Albrighton
                                Hellenius  Agbonlahor
Certainly not having a go at the poster, but when you see it laid bare like that, bloody hell our squad is poor.
That is something you'd expect to see in division 1.

I agree that the squad is very poor but we have to try something new to see if it will affect the upcoming games just leaving things as they are is a non starter and yes Bowery over Hellenius is puzzling
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Matt Collins on December 27, 2013, 09:36:34 PM
Got to compete in midfield against Swansea.


Guzan - Lowton Clark baker luna - bacuna Westwood Delph - albrighton kozak gabby

Would really want to leave luna out but I can't see another option
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Legion on December 27, 2013, 09:38:53 PM
Herd? Hutton? Tuboflard?
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: danlanza on December 27, 2013, 09:51:53 PM
74.3% go for a Swansea win.
Get a fucking grip and back the team ffs.
Villa 3-0.

That's torn it - every time you back us to win we lose danny boy and now you've done it again :(
Erm, sorry mate. I do seem to get it wrong. ;)
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: JUAN PABLO on December 27, 2013, 10:23:14 PM
Juan Pablo. The fans who go have been patient beyond belief. We have got rid of that 'fickle' reputation.

they have been excellent  but they can only take so much , its not cheap nowadays and we want to be a little entertained ;)
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Steve67 on December 27, 2013, 10:28:17 PM
Juan Pablo. The fans who go have been patient beyond belief. We have got rid of that 'fickle' reputation.

they have been excellent  but they can only take so much , its not cheap nowadays and we want to be a little entertained ;)

Seconded. I hope the club actually appreciate the boredom factor that the Villa fans have had to take on board in the last three years.  We won 4 times at home under TSM and 5 last season under Lambert, twice in 9 games so far this season. 11 wins in 47 home games in two and a half years.  Shocking statistic.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: silhillvilla on December 27, 2013, 11:11:52 PM
Bloody hell, to think I've sat through the vast majority of those 47 games . That's over 3 solid days of my life I won't get back
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Des Little on December 27, 2013, 11:17:08 PM
Bloody hell, to think I've sat through the vast majority of those 47 games . That's over 3 solid days of my life I won't get back

Yeah, but think of that Villa Cash!

I'll get me coat
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: David_Nab on December 27, 2013, 11:18:02 PM
Well Kozak won nothing in the air against Palace and generally his hold up play was poor so I'd drop him ..

I'd got

Guzan

Lowton Clark Baker Luna

Albrighton Gardner Westwood Delph Bacuna

Gabby

They will have 5 in midfield so we to match them numerically as our midfielder's are not good enough to compete a man down.Gardner I would put in as he is a goal scoring midfielder and he can score from distance , as we are not creating much  adding someone who can ping one from distance is worthwhile.Bacuna and Albrighton wide as they are the best crosser's we have and both can help the FB ,particularly useful with Luna looking so dodgy.
Gabby up top alone as I feel currently he is better at holding up the ball than Kozak and no less dangerous in the air.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: pauliewalnuts on December 27, 2013, 11:27:44 PM
My body clock is all over the shop with this christmas lark, so it wasn't until this evening that I realised this game is actually tomorrow.

I then got that twisting, sinking feeling in my stomach.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: ozzjim on December 27, 2013, 11:30:38 PM
Well Kozak won nothing in the air against Palace and generally his hold up play was poor so I'd drop him ..

I'd got

Guzan

Lowton Clark Baker Luna

Albrighton Gardner Westwood Delph Bacuna

Gabby

They will have 5 in midfield so we to match them numerically as our midfielder's are not good enough to compete a man down.Gardner I would put in as he is a goal scoring midfielder and he can score from distance , as we are not creating much  adding someone who can ping one from distance is worthwhile.Bacuna and Albrighton wide as they are the best crosser's we have and both can help the FB ,particularly useful with Luna looking so dodgy.
Gabby up top alone as I feel currently he is better at holding up the ball than Kozak and no less dangerous in the air.

Same side for me. Gardner advanced behind Gabby who can do the lone striker role.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: silhillvilla on December 27, 2013, 11:31:37 PM
Bloody hell, to think I've sat through the vast majority of those 47 games . That's over 3 solid days of my life I won't get back

Yeah, but think of that Villa Cash!

I'll get me coat
Good point. But I spent the villa cash on more villa tickets. Aaaaaaaaaarrrrrgggghhhh
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: supertom on December 27, 2013, 11:36:16 PM
The left back situ is this years right back dilemma, I.e. they're all useless
I'd kill to have a stop gap like Mellberg though, filling in at Fullback. ;)

Both fullback positions are terrible at the minute, but the choice of left backs is particularly horrific. When you have two players who make J'Lloyd look like Roberto Carlos, you know you're in the shite.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: silhillvilla on December 27, 2013, 11:38:03 PM
Delph once had a brilliant game at LB. Maybe ?
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Dave Clark Five on December 27, 2013, 11:38:56 PM
Guzan
Hutton
Clark
Baker
Lowton
Herd
Sylla
Delph
Gardner
Agbonlahor
Benteke

Not in any particular order.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Goldie.7 on December 27, 2013, 11:39:41 PM
Gardner has got 0 chance of starting. It's never going to happen.

Guzan
Lowton/Bacuna Clark Baker Luna
Albrighton Westwood Delph Weimann
Gabby
Kozak

Guaranteed line-up.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Monty on December 27, 2013, 11:41:19 PM
The thing is, we might actually win this because here's a team, Swansea, who'll finally do what we want teams to do and keep a lot of possession, play a high line and be relatively open to the counter. So, there is a better chance than against the previous few oppos, who were all able to set up defensively and nullify us.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Dave Clark Five on December 27, 2013, 11:42:39 PM
Gardner has got 0 chance of starting. It's never going to happen.

Guzan
Lowton/Bacuna Clark Baker Luna
Albrighton Westwood Delph Weimann
Gabby
Kozak

Guaranteed line-up.
Is that what you want or what you know?
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: silhillvilla on December 27, 2013, 11:43:15 PM
Guzan
Hutton
Clark
Baker
Lowton
Herd
Sylla
Delph
Gardner
Agbonlahor
Benteke

Not in any particular order.
Is Benteke avail ?
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Goldie.7 on December 27, 2013, 11:43:42 PM
Gardner has got 0 chance of starting. It's never going to happen.

Guzan
Lowton/Bacuna Clark Baker Luna
Albrighton Westwood Delph Weimann
Gabby
Kozak

Guaranteed line-up.
Is that what you want or what you know?

It's what i think.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Goldie.7 on December 27, 2013, 11:44:40 PM
Guzan
Hutton
Clark
Baker
Lowton
Herd
Sylla
Delph
Gardner
Agbonlahor
Benteke

Not in any particular order.
Is Benteke avail ?

No.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: ozzjim on December 27, 2013, 11:45:11 PM
The left back situ is this years right back dilemma, I.e. they're all useless
I'd kill to have a stop gap like Mellberg though, filling in at Fullback. ;)

Both fullback positions are terrible at the minute, but the choice of left backs is particularly horrific. When you have two players who make J'Lloyd look like Roberto Carlos, you know you're in the shite.


Where are Kyle Naughton and Ryan Bertrand at the moment? Are they playing or out on loan? Both would be worth getting in on loan in Jan.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: supertom on December 27, 2013, 11:52:30 PM
The left back situ is this years right back dilemma, I.e. they're all useless
I'd kill to have a stop gap like Mellberg though, filling in at Fullback. ;)

Both fullback positions are terrible at the minute, but the choice of left backs is particularly horrific. When you have two players who make J'Lloyd look like Roberto Carlos, you know you're in the shite.


Where are Kyle Naughton and Ryan Bertrand at the moment? Are they playing or out on loan? Both would be worth getting in on loan in Jan.
That would be fantastic. I say fantastic that a couple of okay players would join, but still... it would be fantastic.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: sirlordbaltimore on December 28, 2013, 12:00:55 AM
Guzan
Hutton
Clark
Baker
Lowton
Herd
Sylla
Delph
Gardner
Agbonlahor
Benteke
Not in any particular order.


who's playing left back ?

Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: sirlordbaltimore on December 28, 2013, 12:02:18 AM

4-4-2

Guzan
Lowton
Clark
Herd
Baker
Albrighton
Delph
Westwood
Sylla
Gabby
Kozak
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Pat McMahon on December 28, 2013, 12:03:41 AM
I am almost dreading tomorrow with our horrendous form. If we concede first I can see it getting ugly.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: ozzjim on December 28, 2013, 12:08:43 AM
I can see us being 2 down in 15 minutes if Swansea are up for it.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: silhillvilla on December 28, 2013, 12:38:33 AM
Guzan
Hutton
Clark
Baker
Lowton
Herd
Sylla
Delph
Gardner
Agbonlahor
Benteke
Not in any particular order.


who's playing left back ?
Hanks
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: adrenachrome on December 28, 2013, 01:13:18 AM
Independent (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/paul-lambert-needs-to-end-home-discomforts-for-aston-villa-9027673.html)

Quote
Last Christmas Aston Villa shipped 15 goals without reply. Manager Paul Lambert did not panic and neither did his employer, Randy Lerner.

Villa clambered to safety, Lerner invested in seven signings at a net £10m deficit, and they won at Arsenal on the opening day. Optimism returned for the first time since Martin O’Neill left.

That heady win at the Emirates is now seen for what it was: a mirage. Villa have lost four on the trot leaving them three points clear of the drop after Thursday’s home defeat by Crystal Palace.

Today they are back at Villa Park, facing Swansea City, but that is of little solace to a team with the worst home goalscoring record in the country – six in 18 games. A counter-attacking approach beat Arsenal and Manchester City but fails against teams who sit back.

On Boxing Day the crowd finally turned on their side and there were reports that Andreas Weimann reacted to abuse. Barry Bannan, the former Villa player who excelled for Palace, said: “I played here and it’s hard to play your normal game when the fans get on your back. It takes big characters.”

Lambert hopes his team  has the courage to block out the jeers. “This is a big club, pressure goes with that,” he said. “I know what it’s like. I lost my first three games at Celtic, people were saying ‘go back to Dortmund’. That was 60,000 saying I was not good enough until I got a grip of it.

“So I know criticism, but this team are young, they need support. People talk about the bravery of going in for a tackle and blood, guts and thunder. Bravery is also taking a ball in front of 40,000 in an area where people just shy away from it. We are a million miles from where I want to be and the lads are edgy, but as long as they don’t hide I’ll never criticise them.”
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Isa on December 28, 2013, 01:24:07 AM
At least Westwood is back so we can drop the hapless KEA.

Is Westwood much better than El Ahmadi? Not in my eyes.

He isn't and against Swansea if we are to stand any chance, we will need an intense pressing game. Something KEA can offer whilst Westwood is the most pathetic off-the-ball player you'll likely to see.

KEA wasn't even that against Palace, certainly no worse then Delph. Yet he still got the usual scapegoating he always gets on here.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Monty on December 28, 2013, 01:25:39 AM
Westwood was really good on and off the ball last season, I really can't believe what's happened to him.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: David_Nab on December 28, 2013, 01:45:45 AM
At least Westwood is back so we can drop the hapless KEA.

Is Westwood much better than El Ahmadi? Not in my eyes.

He isn't and against Swansea if we are to stand any chance, we will need an intense pressing game. Something KEA can offer whilst Westwood is the most pathetic off-the-ball player you'll likely to see.

KEA wasn't even that against Palace, certainly no worse then Delph. Yet he still got the usual scapegoating he always gets on here.

Delph was being slated where I was sitting all match harshly in my view.KEA he is tidy enough and he chases around well enough.But his tackling is pretty poor and his passing is tidy but unspectacular.Work's best in a 3 man midfield for me.Westwood off the ball I agree is poor
especially when defending.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Isa on December 28, 2013, 01:52:09 AM
Delph was being slated where I was sitting all match harshly in my view.KEA he is tidy enough and he chases around well enough.But his tackling is pretty poor and his passing is tidy but unspectacular.Work's best in a 3 man midfield for me.Westwood off the ball I agree is poor
especially when defending.

This is factually untrue though as KEA is the 4th best tackler in the league so far this season.

Westwood was really good on and off the ball last season, I really can't believe what's happened to him.

I'm sorry, he was never good off the ball last season bar his first few starts. The ease at which opposition players could just play up to our area was embarrassing, he never got stuck  in and bothered to tackle nor did he track any opposition runs from midfield. People though chose to ignore this and put all the blame on Bannan instead.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: pbavfckuwait on December 28, 2013, 05:22:54 AM
Calmed down after Boxing day, want a Villa win however it comes, because we need some stability at the club, changing managers every 12 to 18 months is not working mainly down to the people picking them, so a 1-0 to the Villa, mind you Mumbles lose and I will want your head, I am not fickle I just love the Villa and hate losing .
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: ciggiesnbeer on December 28, 2013, 05:47:43 AM
Sure could use a win.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: rob_bridge on December 28, 2013, 06:03:41 AM
Sure could use a win.

Any type would do - can't see it mind.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Merv on December 28, 2013, 07:14:11 AM
Bloody hell - our scoring record at home is poor enough without the Indy making it six in 18! Away games don't count as home matches...
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: brontebilly on December 28, 2013, 07:37:41 AM
if ever there was a side set up to expose our limitations, its Swansea. This is likely to be very painful.

very difficult to see what kind of side we can put out to get a result. at least put in players that are capable of pressing Swansea high up the park.

Id go with

--------------Guzan
Lowton, Clark, Baker, Hutton
----------Herd, Delph---------
Bacuna, Gardner, Albrighton
-------------Gabby------------

wouldnt be against Delph moving to left back.

the players we have available will crumble when the crowd turns against them and the management. this is going to be a horrible day I fear. If they score early on we will be hammered.


Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: rob_bridge on December 28, 2013, 07:44:18 AM
70% think we will lose at home to Swansea.

Have the rest of you gone mad?
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Tayls_7 on December 28, 2013, 07:52:04 AM
70% think we will lose at home to Swansea.

Have the rest of you gone mad?

Sorry have you just been released by the Taliban this morning?
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: UK Redsox on December 28, 2013, 07:52:07 AM
Can Hutton play? I didn't think that he was in the squad
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eastie on December 28, 2013, 07:58:43 AM
At least Westwood is back so we can drop the hapless KEA.

Is Westwood much better than El Ahmadi? Not in my eyes.

He isn't and against Swansea if we are to stand any chance, we will need an intense pressing game. Something KEA can offer whilst Westwood is the most pathetic off-the-ball player you'll likely to see.

KEA wasn't even that against Palace, certainly no worse then Delph. Yet he still got the usual scapegoating he always gets on here.

Delph was being slated where I was sitting all match harshly in my view.KEA he is tidy enough and he chases around well enough.But his tackling is pretty poor and his passing is tidy but unspectacular.Work's best in a 3 man midfield for me.Westwood off the ball I agree is poor
especially when defending.

I thought Delph was very poor against palace- his worst game of the season by a distance for me.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: claret and blue blood on December 28, 2013, 08:03:18 AM
Nothing complicated , we need to get behind the team today, a bit like QPR last season.
Swansea need to feel they are up against us as we'll,to all those going today lets show them exactly who are the best fans in the land.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: silhillvilla on December 28, 2013, 08:25:48 AM
Slight frost overnight in the Mids, minimal wind, patchy blue skies. Temperature hovering at 3c .
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: baddowvillans on December 28, 2013, 08:30:36 AM
Looks like the media have latched on to villa as the club " to drop like a stone"  The mail has an article on Villa and the Sun talks about how the crowd turned on the team.  BB is quoted as saying how hard it is to play with the crowd on your back and the piece implies we were like that during the game.  For me thsts bollocks.  Despite geing one of the worst displays I can remember the crowd were encouraging to the end.  No one should be allowed to blame the support for the inadequacies at the club!
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: tom jennings III on December 28, 2013, 08:34:09 AM
Quote
On Boxing Day the crowd finally turned on their side and there were reports that Andreas Weimann reacted to abuse. Barry Bannan, the former Villa player who excelled for Palace, said: “I played here and it’s hard to play your normal game when the fans get on your back. It takes big characters.”

Lambert hopes his team  has the courage to block out the jeers. “This is a big club, pressure goes with that,” he said. “I know what it’s like. I lost my first three games at Celtic, people were saying ‘go back to Dortmund’. That was 60,000 saying I was not good enough until I got a grip of it.

“So I know criticism, but this team are young, they need support. People talk about the bravery of going in for a tackle and blood, guts and thunder. Bravery is also taking a ball in front of 40,000 in an area where people just shy away from it. We are a million miles from where I want to be and the lads are edgy, but as long as they don’t hide I’ll never criticise them.”

All fair comments, except for the fact that the booing took place at the final whistle. I was in the Holte End and the support was largely positive, especially in the second half which took some doing after that first 45. So these comments are finding excuses where there is no need. The team are young and they need support, and they get it in spades week in week out despite horrible performances. I want them to do well but if Lambert can't see that it is our inability to pass and move that is killing us then he is not watching the same dross I am, and I'm still a believer in "project Lambert", just not sure why at the moment.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: baddowvillans on December 28, 2013, 08:35:10 AM
Just to say I agree with comments about Delph being out of sorts against Palace.  Definitely his worst game for a long time and for me it wasn't so much that things werent going for him as his heart wasnt there like it so obviously has been.  More indication of dressing room problems?
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: taylorsworkrate on December 28, 2013, 08:35:22 AM
It's incredibly easy journalism though.

A team have been utter shit at home so the fans must be a reason for that.

Never mind the fact that despite said shitness, we have a very high average attendance and Lambert has had a lot of patience from the supporters. These things just get in the way of selling a few papers.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: taylorsworkrate on December 28, 2013, 08:39:17 AM
Quote
On Boxing Day the crowd finally turned on their side and there were reports that Andreas Weimann reacted to abuse. Barry Bannan, the former Villa player who excelled for Palace, said: “I played here and it’s hard to play your normal game when the fans get on your back. It takes big characters.”

Lambert hopes his team  has the courage to block out the jeers. “This is a big club, pressure goes with that,” he said. “I know what it’s like. I lost my first three games at Celtic, people were saying ‘go back to Dortmund’. That was 60,000 saying I was not good enough until I got a grip of it.

“So I know criticism, but this team are young, they need support. People talk about the bravery of going in for a tackle and blood, guts and thunder. Bravery is also taking a ball in front of 40,000 in an area where people just shy away from it. We are a million miles from where I want to be and the lads are edgy, but as long as they don’t hide I’ll never criticise them.”

All fair comments, except for the fact that the booing took place at the final whistle. I was in the Holte End and the support was largely positive, especially in the second half which took some doing after that first 45. So these comments are finding excuses where there is no need. The team are young and they need support, and they get it in spades week in week out despite horrible performances. I want them to do well but if Lambert can't see that it is our inability to pass and move that is killing us then he is not watching the same dross I am, and I'm still a believer in "project Lambert", just not sure why at the moment.

Whilst the statement about a young team is true, I can't help but think this is being overplayed somewhat.

These "young" players are largely 23/24/25. It's not as if we've a team packed full of 18 year olds.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Lastfootstamper on December 28, 2013, 08:40:30 AM
Despite all the ensuing results, I've felt we've started brightly in our home games, albeit lasting on average about four minutes before we run out of ideas. We have to date failed to capitalize on this. Let's get clinical early on, and we'll get the three points. Don't, and it's hard to see anything other than a long, cold, miserable ninety minutes.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eastie on December 28, 2013, 08:47:25 AM
Quote from: the mirror



By Mike Walters | 27/12/13 

Paul Lambert will face the music if Aston Villa come a cropper at home again and he is serenaded by more orchestral manoeuvres in the dark.

For the first time in his ­managerial career, Lambert is on the verge of a crisis with fans’ patience exhausted by a glut of dreadful home performances.

Villa were booed off after suffering a Boxing Day sucker punch in added time against struggling Crystal Palace – and the natives will be even more restless if they come unstuck against Swansea today.

Lambert’s job is NOT under imminent threat, but the facts read like a ransom note.

Villa have scored only six goals in nine home League games this season – half of them in one memorable fightback against Manchester City – the worst home scoring record in all four divisions.

They have lost four games on the bounce, last season’s talisman Christian Benteke is injured, they have failed to score in five of the last six at Villa Park and Lambert’s cushion against the drop zone is down to three points.

Twelve months ago, when Villa shipped 15 goals without reply in a bleak festive programme against Chelsea, Tottenham and Wigan, Lambert – assembling a young side – was cut some slack on the basis of his squad’s inexperience. But patience is wearing thin because early-season optimism, generated by a startling win at Arsenal, has evaporated amid a series of moribund displays at home, culminating in Lambert’s painful Boxing Day concerto from his flock.

Lambo said: “It’s a challenge and I’m not going to duck it.

“We are doing everything we can to keep building on last season, but we are a million miles short of what we are trying to do with the club.

“I’ve never wilted in the face of a challenge – you fight it, you don’t wilt or run away from it.

“There is so much pressure in football these days that if you haven’t won in two games, there’s a crisis. It seems to be getting shorter and shorter, and Swansea are on that same kind of run.

“I played with some big clubs as a footballer – I was not exempt from criticism then, and I’m not exempt from it now. I can remember my first few games at Celtic – I lost them and people were saying, ‘Go back to Dortmund, not good enough’ until I bedded myself in and got a grip of it.

“We can’t turn round and be critical of the crowd. They give us energy when we win, so they are entitled to voice an opinion when we lose. You have to be big enough to take it and you see it through.

“Some people talk about bravery as being going in for a tackle that’s 10ft high or blood, guts and thunder – but real bravery in football is taking the ball in front of 40,000 fans in an area where others would shy away from it.

“As long as these players don’t try to hide and run away, then I’ll never criticise them for trying to do the right things"

Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: brontebilly on December 28, 2013, 08:51:10 AM
Just to say I agree with comments about Delph being out of sorts against Palace.  Definitely his worst game for a long time and for me it wasn't so much that things werent going for him as his heart wasnt there like it so obviously has been.  More indication of dressing room problems?

guilty of trying too hard I suspect. Confidence has evaporated in all the player with Delph no exception.

What I wont accept is the efforts some players put in against Fulham but particularly Stoke. A lot of our players disgraced themselves and the club with their fake hardman conduct at Stoke. Didnt see the Palace game but a manager in control of things doesnt allow things develop like that. It seems with a few of our players that they are unnecessarily sailing close to red cards, perhaps the pressure is getting to them.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: taylorsworkrate on December 28, 2013, 08:53:29 AM
Just to say I agree with comments about Delph being out of sorts against Palace.  Definitely his worst game for a long time and for me it wasn't so much that things werent going for him as his heart wasnt there like it so obviously has been.  More indication of dressing room problems?

guilty of trying too hard I suspect. Confidence has evaporated in all the player with Delph no exception.

What I wont accept is the efforts some players put in against Fulham but particularly Stoke. A lot of our players disgraced themselves and the club with their fake hardman conduct at Stoke. Didnt see the Palace game but a manager in control of things doesnt allow things develop like that. It seems with a few of our players that they are unnecessarily sailing close to red cards, perhaps the pressure is getting to them.

It can't have been easy for Delph when his midfield support basically consisted of KEA.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Ron Manager on December 28, 2013, 08:59:57 AM
Quote
On Boxing Day the crowd finally turned on their side and there were reports that Andreas Weimann reacted to abuse. Barry Bannan, the former Villa player who excelled for Palace, said: “I played here and it’s hard to play your normal game when the fans get on your back. It takes big characters.”

Lambert hopes his team  has the courage to block out the jeers. “This is a big club, pressure goes with that,” he said. “I know what it’s like. I lost my first three games at Celtic, people were saying ‘go back to Dortmund’. That was 60,000 saying I was not good enough until I got a grip of it.

“So I know criticism, but this team are young, they need support. People talk about the bravery of going in for a tackle and blood, guts and thunder. Bravery is also taking a ball in front of 40,000 in an area where people just shy away from it. We are a million miles from where I want to be and the lads are edgy, but as long as they don’t hide I’ll never criticise them.”

All fair comments, except for the fact that the booing took place at the final whistle. I was in the Holte End and the support was largely positive, especially in the second half which took some doing after that first 45. So these comments are finding excuses where there is no need. The team are young and they need support, and they get it in spades week in week out despite horrible performances. I want them to do well but if Lambert can't see that it is our inability to pass and move that is killing us then he is not watching the same dross I am, and I'm still a believer in "project Lambert", just not sure why at the moment.

Whilst the statement about a young team is true, I can't help but think this is being overplayed somewhat.

These "young" players are largely 23/24/25. It's not as if we've a team packed full of 18 year olds.

If Ryan Giggs was playing for us he would be described as 'young' and maybe even 'hungry'!
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: silhillvilla on December 28, 2013, 09:01:47 AM
Just for the record aswell, whilst they were hopeless as a team it's KEA who gets easily turned over and loses possession for the palace breakaway and goal. It's something KEA is always vulnerable to as he is so weak on the ball and his touch and passing are very poor.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: ozzjim on December 28, 2013, 09:07:26 AM
Delph was poor, but as I said on the match thread, playing in a 2, they did not act as a partnership in there at all, neither of them covered round for the other etc. Was very annoying to watch.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eastie on December 28, 2013, 09:17:57 AM
Just for the record aswell, whilst they were hopeless as a team it's KEA who gets easily turned over and loses possession for the palace breakaway and goal. It's something KEA is always vulnerable to as he is so weak on the ball and his touch and passing are very poor.

Kea is awful but in fairness Delph lost possession several times on Thursday .
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Lastfootstamper on December 28, 2013, 09:31:52 AM
Delph was poor, but as I said on the match thread, playing in a 2, they did not act as a partnership in there at all, neither of them covered round for the other etc. Was very annoying to watch.

I commented to those around me about that. The distance between them at times was ridiculous, one up, one back, no pass out of trouble available, huge space in the middle of the park that palace filled every time we inevitably lost possession. Discipline and concentration is what's required when playing as a two.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: mr woo on December 28, 2013, 09:40:57 AM
Come on lads, there's several reasons to be positive about this one

Swansea are playing their second AWAY game in two days. They're also distracted by Europe this season. Michu is not playing. The dreadful Jonjo Shelvey will almost certainly start.

I think the palace embarrassment could produce a backlash and positive response amongst the players. The law of averages says we will win one eventually.

Drop KEA, who appears to lose every single 50-50 block tackle he makes and replace him with Herd, who is at least prepared to grit his teeth and get stuck in. Shelvey will go missing if he thinks he's in a battle.

Drop Andi. Stick GG in as part of a central midfield three with Gabby and Marc wide. Put Kojak up front and the back four that ended the Palace game in defence, light the blue touch paper, sit back and wait for the three points to roll in.









My prediction - 2-0 to Swansea.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: VillaAlways on December 28, 2013, 09:48:07 AM
Looks like the media have latched on to villa as the club " to drop like a stone"  The mail has an article on Villa and the Sun talks about how the crowd turned on the team.  BB is quoted as saying how hard it is to play with the crowd on your back and the piece implies we were like that during the game.  For me thsts bollocks.  Despite geing one of the worst displays I can remember the crowd were encouraging to the end.  No one should be allowed to blame the support for the inadequacies at the club!
Yes, we are playing absoloutely dire football under a clueless manager and somehow that's the fans fault. Barry Bannan can piss off too , with his antics off the pitch and his sub standard performances on them and he wonders why he got a bit of stick?
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: mr woo on December 28, 2013, 09:48:41 AM
P.s. Shelvey to get both goals.

One thirty yard screamer and one Maradona-esque mazy run from his own penalty box.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: chrisf on December 28, 2013, 09:51:12 AM
I'm as certain as the next man that we'll get beaten today. Bizarrely you can get 7/4 on a Swansea win with us only slightly longer at 9/5 ...
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Ads on December 28, 2013, 09:53:10 AM
Guzan, Baker, Clark, Lowton and Luna.

Westwood deep, Gardner for a change, Delph more advanced. Bacuna and Gabby wide of Kozak and we as a team, press and press and press.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Tugby Villain on December 28, 2013, 09:55:46 AM
Lambert won't put out this team, but here's how I'd set up:

Guzan

Lowton
Vlaar (still injured?)
Baker
Tony Moon

Bacuna
Gardner
Delph

Albrighton
Kozak
Agbonlahor
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Clampy on December 28, 2013, 09:56:08 AM
Delph was poor, but as I said on the match thread, playing in a 2, they did not act as a partnership in there at all, neither of them covered round for the other etc. Was very annoying to watch.

Delph wasn't up to his normal high standard against Palace but he wasn't poor.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: ez on December 28, 2013, 09:56:24 AM
0-0 if we're lucky.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: baddowvillans on December 28, 2013, 10:22:26 AM
So the new Cardiff manager will have £25m to spend and Palace and Fulham have also indicated they will be in the market.  Sunderland are also lijely to back the improvement under Poyet and west ham will almost certainly buy a striker or two.  So will Randy release funds and if he does should PLbe the one spending it.

what is clear is that there will be a lot of competition so I believe we must focus on quality and not quantity
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: MonsXI on December 28, 2013, 10:22:35 AM
What I'd give for an early goal, god knows where it would come from!
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Steve kirk on December 28, 2013, 10:37:36 AM
Praying for a win, dreaming of a win, desperate for a win, Villa 0 Swansea 2 :(
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: garyshawsknee on December 28, 2013, 10:39:17 AM
If we don't get an early goal, its gonna be another tough watch. I just can't see what he can do to freshen the team up,throwing Bacuna and Gardner into the midfield sees the most obvious thing, can't see him doing it though. Least Gardner will be fearless, he plays looking forward and makes forward runs,something we have been missing for god knows how long. KEA and Westwood in midfield shouldn't enter PLs mind. UTV.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eastie on December 28, 2013, 10:43:34 AM
Swansea play good passing football - i fear they will cut us to ribbons if they score first - heads will drop and it could be a long afternoon.
An early villa goal would provide a much needed lift to all .
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: olaftab on December 28, 2013, 10:47:25 AM
I am very worried. Just been on BBC website and Lawro has predicted us to win 2-0.....
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: olaftab on December 28, 2013, 10:51:33 AM
Lambert won't put out this team, but here's how I'd set up:

Guzan

Lowton
Vlaar (still injured?)
Baker
Tony Moon

Bacuna
Gardner
Delph

Albrighton
Kozak
Agbonlahor
Yes and lose 8-0 specially with 3 at the back!
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: damon loves JT on December 28, 2013, 10:54:10 AM
We will batter them.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: FrankyH on December 28, 2013, 10:56:26 AM
Guzan, Baker, Clark, Lowton and Luna.

Westwood deep, Gardner for a change, Delph more advanced. Bacuna and Gabby wide of Kozak and we as a team, press and press and press.

I would love to see Gardner in the team today.If Lambert makes no changes after the Palace display I feel we are in for a long season.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Steve kirk on December 28, 2013, 10:57:46 AM
I know we dont have proper replacements for him but Luna should not play in this or the Sunderland game, he is a liability who will cost us so Bacuna or Herd to fill in there, I dont see that they can do any worse.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: The Man With A Stick on December 28, 2013, 10:58:55 AM
So the new Cardiff manager will have £25m to spend and Palace and Fulham have also indicated they will be in the market.  Sunderland are also lijely to back the improvement under Poyet and west ham will almost certainly buy a striker or two.  So will Randy release funds and if he does should PLbe the one spending it.

what is clear is that there will be a lot of competition so I believe we must focus on quality and not quantity

Don't hold your breath.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: baddowvillans on December 28, 2013, 11:04:52 AM
Perhaps Bowery has a younger brother we could afford?
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Matt Collins on December 28, 2013, 11:08:00 AM
What I'd give for an early goal, god knows where it would come from!

First goal will be huge today for all the obvious reasons, but in particular because Swansea's record is hugely different when they do and don't score first. And you can see why. They keep the ball more / better than anyone else in the league. Will be a frustrating day if they get one up early on and then proceed to pass us off the park as they did a couple of years ago.

Laudrup rested a few for the last game. Two years ago we came off the back of a great 3-1 win at Chelsea, made one change to Swansea's 8+, and never looked at the races. So I think we do need some fresh legs.

Most obviously I think that would be Westwood, Bacuna and possibly one or two more. I also think we can't afford to get outnumbered in midfield. So I'd go:

Guzan - Lowton Herd Clark Baker (painful typing that) - Bacuna Westwood Delph - Albrighton Kozak Gabby

I really can't say I'm happy with that. But the other options seem even worse!
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Brian Taylor on December 28, 2013, 11:23:33 AM
70%, nigh on, predicting we lose..The Villa depression is back! Only one way to cure depression fight it and win!
Cum on da Veee-laaah!
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: claret and blue blood on December 28, 2013, 11:26:10 AM
What I'd give for an early goal, god knows where it would come from!

First goal will be huge today for all the obvious reasons, but in particular because Swansea's record is hugely different when they do and don't score first. And you can see why. They keep the ball more / better than anyone else in the league. Will be a frustrating day if they get one up early on and then proceed to pass us off the park as they did a couple of years ago.

Laudrup rested a few for the last game. Two years ago we came off the back of a great 3-1 win at Chelsea, made one change to Swansea's 8+, and never looked at the races. So I think we do need some fresh legs.

Most obviously I think that would be Westwood, Bacuna and possibly one or two more. I also think we can't afford to get outnumbered in midfield. So I'd go:

Guzan - Lowton Herd Clark Baker (painful typing that) - Bacuna Westwood Delph - Albrighton Kozak Gabby

I really can't say I'm happy with that. But the other options seem even worse!
Christ I thought the same but when you look at it on paper it's frightening !

I'd give Gardner a go in place of Westwood as a roll of the dice as Westwood offers nothing going forward and at least with Bacuna and Gardner they could maybe do something from a free kick ?
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: supertom on December 28, 2013, 11:27:18 AM
Turf most of the first team in the stiffs for a couple of weeks, and bring the kids up. Guzan, Delph, Albrighton, Gabby and Kozak keep their places, and we'll then bring in the likes of Robinson, Johnson, Donacien etc. They sure as shite couldn't play any worse.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eastie on December 28, 2013, 11:34:41 AM
We will batter them.

I take it you and brian are having haddock for dinner then :)
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Summers on December 28, 2013, 11:41:57 AM
Not feeling confident today..
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: citizenDJ on December 28, 2013, 11:45:33 AM
Here's the team I think I would play were I in charge of such things:

                  Guzan

Lowton   Clark   Baker   Luna

   Bacuna Westwood Delph

Albrighton               Agbonlahor

                Helenius

I know that smacks of Helenius being a cause celebre, but I think he's worth a go. He is the one player I think we have who can bring some flair to the game, he seems pretty sound technically and I think with him dropping deep and Agbonlahor pushing on beyond him we could take advantage of Swansea's higher defensive line.

In Bacuna, Delph and Westwood we may not have the most technically proficient bunch, but I think they're probably the best we have in that regard, but they also work hard, all three, in closing down and harrying, which we'll need to do to get the ball off the Swans.

The defenders....well, they're all in their best positions, I suppose. That's about the best I can say of them really. Lowton's pretty good.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: JUAN PABLO on December 28, 2013, 12:00:25 PM
why did I dream Swansea win 4-0

ffs Villa , you are even f**king up my dreams
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: onje_villa on December 28, 2013, 12:02:48 PM
Seeing this brought some warmth back in these cold days as a Villain.


Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: JJ-AV on December 28, 2013, 12:05:28 PM
We need to play

Guzan
Lowton - Clark - Baker - Luna
Bacuna - KAE - Delph
Tonev
Kozak - Agbonlahor

At least Tonev is going to have a go.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Dave Clark Five on December 28, 2013, 12:09:10 PM
Guzan
Hutton
Clark
Baker
Lowton
Herd
Sylla
Delph
Gardner
Agbonlahor
Benteke

Not in any particular order.
Is Benteke avail ?

No.
If you believe what you read.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: olaftab on December 28, 2013, 12:16:42 PM
why did I dream Swansea win 4-0

ffs Villa , you are even f**king up my dreams
Your dreams are consistent with your posts.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: olaftab on December 28, 2013, 12:18:46 PM
Off to Villa Park now. These are the sort of games we need to win otherwise no Europa League football next season.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Bad English on December 28, 2013, 12:19:20 PM
By the way, will Culverhouse be taking the penalty?
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: supertom on December 28, 2013, 12:21:54 PM
We need to play

Guzan
Lowton - Clark - Baker - Luna
Bacuna - KAE - Delph
Tonev
Kozak - Agbonlahor

At least Tonev is going to have a go.
At what, we can't quite be sure at this time.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: dingo on December 28, 2013, 12:23:15 PM
We have no chance poor players who won't play for manager = Religation sorry  :-[
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eastie on December 28, 2013, 12:25:09 PM
We have no chance poor players who won't play for manager = Religation sorry  :-[

Interesting point - I've wondered recently if the players are playing for the manager or whether he has lost the dressing room - the spirit doesn't seem there anymore.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: BoskoDjembaSalifou on December 28, 2013, 12:30:25 PM
I'm usually always optimistic but I'm really struggling today. 1-0 Villa.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Ian. on December 28, 2013, 12:30:45 PM
2-0 Kozak and Westwood, the season revival starts today.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: supertom on December 28, 2013, 12:33:06 PM
We have no chance poor players who won't play for manager = Religation sorry  :-[

Interesting point - I've wondered recently if the players are playing for the manager or whether he has lost the dressing room - the spirit doesn't seem there anymore.
It's hard when you have a bunch of kids struggling in a run of poor form. Even when we went 5 games unbeaten the warning signs were there. We didn't play anything close to okay during those games. We still picked up results, but Lambert still wasn't doing anything to try and rectify the problems we were having. Since then our lucks also run out, and we've thoroughly deserved everything we've had so far in the last four games. We can't even, like Soton or WBA against us, claim to be unfortunate to have dropped the points we have. We've been complete shite.

We're looking jaded at the moment. Perhaps he is losing the dressing room, because there's no way in hell Lamberts sending them out with a clear game plan. They look lost, hopeless and all over the place right now. Headless chickens. Allowing your players to go out and express themselves will only get you so far, like our good run from Feb-May. Players in form playing with verve and a bit of freedom. But there was no master stroke about it. Players hit form at the right time and we hit teams fast and hard. Now they know how to counter us and a genuine tactical game plan is required, and better organisation. This is where Lambert has been found severly lacking.
If the effort and application of the players drop, that's his one ace in deck then gone and he's in big trouble. He'd most definitely have to go.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: silhillvilla on December 28, 2013, 12:34:01 PM
An own goal or a Penno is our only hope
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Ian. on December 28, 2013, 12:39:08 PM
We have no chance poor players who won't play for manager = Religation sorry  :-[

Interesting point - I've wondered recently if the players are playing for the manager or whether he has lost the dressing room - the spirit doesn't seem there anymore.
I don't think he's lost the dressing room at all. We're on a sump and confidence is low 'tis all. We'll bounce back today make a few signings in the next week and we can put all this talk of Hoddle and Fat Sam to bed.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: ktvillan on December 28, 2013, 12:41:57 PM
Today's choice is to either take the kids out or watch another episode of Lambert's "compelling" brand of headless chicken hoofball. So I'm off out. Strangely I feel quite optimistic about this one, but realistically, with mostly only sub-standard and out-of form players available, and no discernable tactical plan,  it's difficult to predict anything other than another miserable defeat.  Probably about 0-2 with us lucky to get nil.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Jon Crofts on December 28, 2013, 12:43:55 PM
Not optimistic about this one, we might score, they'll score more, I hope we play better and string some possession and moves together, we have to turn the corner today and put 2013 to bed once and for all.  Us 1 them 2.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: JUAN PABLO on December 28, 2013, 12:44:29 PM
why did I dream Swansea win 4-0

ffs Villa , you are even f**king up my dreams
Your dreams are consistent with your posts.

I actually think we might sneak this























but Ive not taken my medication yet
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: MonsXI on December 28, 2013, 12:45:59 PM
Let's leave the whinging and booing to forum's and social media and get behind the lads! Confidence is in short supply lets to and inject a bit ourselves?
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: PeterWithesShin on December 28, 2013, 12:47:41 PM
On the 7 to the ground to sell you your favourite publication.  Feeling strangely optimistic especially as I went into where a mate works as a lucky ritual as we never lose when I do that. So you can thank me for the 3 points as it's all down to me!
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: silhillvilla on December 28, 2013, 12:52:14 PM
Let's leave the whinging and booing to forum's and social media and get behind the lads! Confidence is in short supply lets to and inject a bit ourselves?
We always do.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: olaftab on December 28, 2013, 12:56:21 PM
We need to play

Guzan
Lowton - Clark - Baker - Luna
Bacuna - KAE - Delph
Tonev
Kozak - Agbonlahor

At least Tonev is going to have a go.
At what, we can't quite be sure at this time.
I sit in row W directly inline with the centre of goal so height wise I am at risk but safe position wise.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: silhillvilla on December 28, 2013, 01:01:07 PM
Word on street is Kozak is dropped.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Jimbo on December 28, 2013, 01:02:16 PM
Could this be Bowery's chance to triumph?
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Monty on December 28, 2013, 01:02:44 PM
Word on street is Kozak is dropped.

He's not...he can't be starting...not...
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: ozzjim on December 28, 2013, 01:23:26 PM
If Kozak is out Helenius should be the starting one.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: PGW on December 28, 2013, 01:27:23 PM
Word on street is Kozak is dropped.

He's not...he can't be starting...not...
Fcuk me.....I aint gonna bother today......it gets more and more depressing......i'll wait until team announced if he is starting definetley not going.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: gpbarr on December 28, 2013, 01:31:12 PM
We have no chance poor players who won't play for manager = Religation sorry  :-[

Interesting point - I've wondered recently if the players are playing for the manager or whether he has lost the dressing room - the spirit doesn't seem there anymore.
I don't think he's lost the dressing room at all. We're on a sump and confidence is low 'tis all. We'll bounce back today make a few signings in the next week and we can put all this talk of Hoddle and Fat Sam to bed.

That. 2-1 win today. UTV
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: mrfuse on December 28, 2013, 01:36:58 PM
Im a season ticket holder but after Thursdays performance I cant bring myself around to watching that shit again so im not bothering to go.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: sirlordbaltimore on December 28, 2013, 01:40:47 PM
Let's leave the whinging and booing to forum's and social media and get behind the lads! Confidence is in short supply lets to and inject a bit ourselves?

it's never that way during the match to my ears. far from it
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: SoccerHQ on December 28, 2013, 01:41:36 PM
Think Kozak picked up a knock v Palace given he was subbed with 15 mins left.

Can see it being a front two of Gabby and Weimann (what a lucky boy he is getting yet another chance) with Albrighton and Bacuna the wide boys.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: saunders_heroes on December 28, 2013, 01:43:49 PM
Let's leave the whinging and booing to forum's and social media and get behind the lads! Confidence is in short supply lets to and inject a bit ourselves?

it's never that way during the match to my ears. far from it

Precisely. Fans at Villa Park have had enough of being fed shit. We've had enough!
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: ozzjim on December 28, 2013, 01:48:20 PM
I would sooner see Bowery in over Weimann
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: PGW on December 28, 2013, 02:06:26 PM
Guzan, lowton, clark, baker, luna, Westwood, Bacuna, Weimann, Delph, Agbonlahor, Tonev
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Monty on December 28, 2013, 02:07:28 PM
I would sooner see Bowery in over Weimann

In the same way that I don't know if I'd rather be eaten by carnivorous worms or crushed to death by pressure at the bottom of the sea, I really would not like to make this choice.
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: PGW on December 28, 2013, 02:07:38 PM
Subs, Steer, Helenius, Bowery, Sylla, KEA, Kozak, Albrighton
Title: Re: Aston Villa vs Swansea Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Dave Cooper please on December 28, 2013, 11:04:00 PM
74.3% go for a Swansea win.


Funnily enough that is roughly the percentage of possession Swansea had in the game.

Any wonder the natives are restless?
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