Aston Villa v Norwich City Pre-Match Thread

[rutski]

2 -1 to villa. bent double and nervy last minute goal by snodgrass for them. Mom is to be Lowton with him reading all holt and morisons runs like he has played cb all his life!

[Fin Feds Dad]

The most telling thing on this thread is that I don't think two people have picked the same starting line up - does that mean we have options or does it mean there's a definite lack of real quality? I also don't think Lambert knows his preferred starting 11 yet - and he should by now.

I would start with Bent, Benteke and Wiemann just behind them in attack. Gabby just doesn't do it for me - and hasn't for a long time. Apart from pace , he offers nothing - especially with his back to goal - and his lack of intelligent movement is obvious.

He is an impact sub when defenders are tired now, in my eyes.

Stating the obvious, but it's a massive game today - Norwich at home a massive game - just shows how far we've fallen.

Morale boosting 3-1 win - and James Bond tonight . UTV

[Percy McCarthy]

Cup goals count to me. If not, somebody tell Man City they're playing at Swindon on Tuesday.

[WALTERS WARRIORS]

I actually can see Lowton have a brilliant game with Vlaar and everyone thinking we have found the "new" CB of the future.
Really hope PL plays Benteke - Bent. Also Bannan needs to be a supplier and Holman needs to be in the midfield to keep an eye on Pilkington. 3-1 Villa Benteke brace + Lichaj this game is massive and need to rock Villa Park today ......

[Fin Feds Dad]

Cup goals count to me. If not, somebody tell Man City they're playing at Swindon on Tuesday.

And league goals count as well - he's scored once in 12 months . Believe me, I would love him to be the player he was a few seasons ago - but I think he's way off .

[eastie]

The media seem to think bent will be on the bench again today , interesting to read that Swindon are reportedly playing a reserve team against Stevenage today and keep the 1st team fresh for the villa match .

[Shrek]

------------Guzan
Lichaj-Lowton-Vlaar-Bennett
-----Kea-Bannan-Delph
Albrighton-Benteke-Weimann

Defence obviously only if Baker and Clark don't make it.

Albrighton for width, Weimann for energy and movement and Benteke for size and strength.

[Clampy]

I think Gabby is a very lucky boy to keep being picked (if the early team news is true). Other than Man City the other week, he's done next to nothing for a long time.

[eastie]

I think Gabby is a very lucky boy to keep being picked (if the early team news is true). Other than Man City the other week, he's done next to nothing for a long time.

Totally agree, clamps!

[danlanza]

It is going to be a hard game today and every player has to step up.
Has to start Bent and Benteke i think.
We need to go for the win from the start or else our confidence will be totally gone.
It is time the players gave the hard working, loyal Villa fans something good to talk about after the game.
                                 UTV.

[JUAN PABLO]

I think Gabby is a very lucky boy to keep being picked (if the early team news is true). Other than Man City the other week, he's done next to nothing for a long time.

and he cant keep blaming the managers

[Irish villain]

Gabby's pace in itself creates openings for others. And he adds to the team even when he's not scoring.

[PeterWithesShin]

In his last 30 games Gabby has managed 3 goals, all in cups. He's scored 1 league goal in over a year.

I love Gabby but based on his form of the last year he shouldn't be starting.

[cheltenhamlion]

I have woken up convinced we are in for a good day like Swansea.

[paulcomben]

A radical thought occurred whilst walking the dog this morning and worrying about the match. 3 at the back.

Guzan - Lowton, Vlaar, Lichaj - Herd, Ireland, KEA, Holman, Bennett - Bent, Benteke

Not likely, but intriguing.