Aston Villa beat Derby County at Wembley to gain promotion to the Premier League. Under the guidance of manager Dean Smith and assistant John Terry, the club succeeded where they had failed the season before.
Aston Villa Should Comfortably Survive
Big Spenders Don’t Always Prosper
In the summer of 2018, Fulham went all out to strengthen their squad. Spending over £100 million on players was supposed to bring them a long stay in the top division. What it brought was players who struggled to adapt to the Premier League and a lack of any real cohesion. It resulted in relegation, so have Aston Villa ignored the warning?
Aston Villa have brought in nine players, including Tyrone Mings, who impressed on loan last season in the Championship, Bjorn Engles from Reims and Jota from Birmingham City. Some of the signings have been for ‘undisclosed’ fees but the figure spent is believed to be well in excess of £100 million. Nine players have also departed for a total of £0. The club have taken risks to challenge in the Premier League and, if it doesn’t pay, it’s an extremely expensive risk.
Pre Season – 100%
Pre-season results have given Villa fans much to be optimistic about; four games and four wins. The performance against Charlton Athletic, a 4-1 win, was especially eye-catching with fast-flowing football being finished off with goals. There is a word of warning for Aston Villa fans – teams have won all their pre-season games before and ended up being relegated. Pre-season can be a cruel master and provides little idea of what will come once the real action begins.
Predictions – Aston Villa to Secure Mid Table Finish
Big-spending Aston Villa are certainly meaning business on their return to the top table in England. Fulham proved that big spending is no guarantee of success and fans will hope that the club haven’t overspent in their pursuit of Premier League longevity.
Dean Smith is a much-admired young coach and with former Chelsea and England defender John Terry at his side, there is reason for fans of the Villains to be cautiously optimistic ahead of their season opener away to Tottenham Hotspur.
Predicted Finish – 10th
