I predict an utter shit show for the first 15 minutes as no one has any idea where they're going. Then there will e pure drudgery for another 60 min followed by a game of who can hoof it up the highest for the last 15 min
Not the starting XI.
This just from the villa account
@AVFCOfficial: #AVFC: Guzan, Lowton, Vlaar [c], Baker, Bennett, Westwood, Delph, Agbonlahor, Weimann, Bowery, Benteke. #AVFCLIVE
Because that's a nonsensical argument. Where we are at the table has no direct relation to the player's role or quality on the team.
Some say Guzan is a great shot stopper and top keeper. But we're 18th and leaking goals so he's obviously not.
See how silly that argument looks?
Apparently Bent wasn't fit for the Liverpool game and Bowery was on the bench instead. I don't know about other games, but I really think his injury was more serious than they let on
Injury updates:
Holman and Bent are fit and ready to go. PL remarked that Bent wasn't fit for the Liverpool game but that he will be in the squad for Stoke. Whether that means starting or on the bench is anyone's guess, but we should see him.
Clark is a doubt however. Still has a nagging shoulder injury.
Worried that Bennett is going to have play. Would seriously consider Lichaj for his defending and Sylla is a must play for his height in the midfield.
I think Baker will still come good.
I just wish he would have followed Vlaar's example and just simply not allow the cut back and let the cross in. Don't give it to him, make him work for it.
I'd go with the same starting XI.
I've seen far too many Stoke games than necessary this season and they are an awful side. Yes, they're higher than us through sheer will and physicality (something we usually struggle against) but they play some truly dire football and that's saying something when it's stoke. We can definitely outplay them and win this game and I think our results and play against non-top 7 sides have shown that we can definitely get all 3 points.
But we're going to need a big game from Brad.
Come out and get that ball, Brad. Punch whoever you want to get to it.
Really hurt when he came off. His movement is vital to stretching the defense. When Charles comes on, he just sits around wanting to get on the ball. Weimann's movement pulls people out of position
I'm sorry, I know he made some good challenges earlier in the game, but what was he thinking??
Everyone and their mum knew what Suarez was going to do but he still came in like a banshee. Should have followed Vlaar's example and stayed on his feet and not allow the cut back. If he gets down the line and crosses it in, fine, but don't let him cut it back. It's not that **** hard