The worry is that in 1991-92 and also 1979-80, we were on an upward trajectory, whereas we're still suffering now from a decade of failure. Therefore every win is seen as a blip and every defeat a return to the norm.
The other thing about this squad is that for the first time in many years, I actually like most of our players and staff.- We have senior pros like Elmo, McGinn, Jack, Barkley and Mings instead of Lescott, Gabby, Lansbury (in the squad at least!) and Richards taking the piss.- Mings, whatever your thoughts about him as a player, as a bloke is top notch.- Trez, who while limited as a player, can't be faulted for effort. He made me chuckle tonight whien he was standing dripping with blood, clearly a bit out of it, seemingly arguing that he shouldn't be going off. 100% effort.- Jack, from our academy to the country's new great hope, and still seems proper grounded with all he does for local charities.- Deano, from helping his old man as a kid at the ground to managing us- Hungry, talented young players getting better and better like Konsa, Luiz and Cash- Some exciting prospects in the youths like Ramsey and Barry, hopefully who will get some gametime this year.- Martinez - the best keeper we've had in years. As much as I like Heaton and even Steer, Martinez just seems to be that one step up. And about six steps up from Nyland.A couple of signings in January to bump the likes of Hourihane and El Ghazi from the bench and challenge the likes of Trez and Targett for a first team spot, and we have every chance of a top 10 spot. Who would possibly have thought that three games before the end of last season?As Paulie said, it's certainly not boring.
I agree 100% pauliewalnuts.Despite recent results we are playing some of the best football in the whole league. It is not going unnoticed by commentators, pundits, media and many other clubs supporters.We have rich owners with vision, top management team, quality players throughout, youthful energy with willingness to learn, attacking intent and 40,000 plus supporters waiting in the wings. A recipe for success. The future is bright, the future is Aston Villa.A work in progress that is progressing very nicely.
Quote from: Baldy on December 01, 2020, 09:04:03 AMI agree 100% pauliewalnuts.Despite recent results we are playing some of the best football in the whole league. It is not going unnoticed by commentators, pundits, media and many other clubs supporters.We have rich owners with vision, top management team, quality players throughout, youthful energy with willingness to learn, attacking intent and 40,000 plus supporters waiting in the wings. A recipe for success. The future is bright, the future is Aston Villa.A work in progress that is progressing very nicely. But take Grealish out of that team and what are you left with?
Quote from: ChicagoLion on December 01, 2020, 09:09:41 AMQuote from: Baldy on December 01, 2020, 09:04:03 AMI agree 100% pauliewalnuts.Despite recent results we are playing some of the best football in the whole league. It is not going unnoticed by commentators, pundits, media and many other clubs supporters.We have rich owners with vision, top management team, quality players throughout, youthful energy with willingness to learn, attacking intent and 40,000 plus supporters waiting in the wings. A recipe for success. The future is bright, the future is Aston Villa.A work in progress that is progressing very nicely. But take Grealish out of that team and what are you left with?The Argentinian international goalkeeper, Englands future international center back partnership, two full backs with tonnes of potential, Scotlands top international player in midfield alongside a Brazilian international and also Barkley producing the goods. Irelands best midfielder as back up. A prolific young forward (with Brazilian international as back up) alongside a former Champions league/Chelsea player who has just arrived. Throw in Trezequet, who will be a massive asset when he finds his shooting boots. Need I go on, we are far, far from a one man team.
There is something about us this season that makes me feel we may, just may be on the verge of something really, really good.
I think Heaton will be making a strong claim for the first team spot when he's back to full fitness.
Quote from: Risso on December 01, 2020, 09:29:39 AMI think Heaton will be making a strong claim for the first team spot when he's back to full fitness.Really? Other than spilling one against Fulham, Martinez has done nothing wrong. I can't think of a goal we've conceded that he could do anything about. He's also better with his feet than Heaton.
The Argentinian international goalkeeper, Englands future international center back partnership, two young full backs with tonnes of potential, Scotlands top international player in midfield alongside a Brazilian international and also Barkley producing the goods. Irelands best midfielder as back up. A prolific young forward (with Brazilian international as back up) alongside a former Champions league/Chelsea player who has just arrived. Throw in Trezequet, who will be a massive asset when he finds his shooting boots. Need I go on, we are far, far from a one man team.