It is a return to Premier League duty as Palace head to Villa Park for the ridiculously rescheduled Sunday evening kick off in Birmingham, the final game before both the transfer window closes and the first international break of the season.
Ahead of the fixture, we caught up with our pal Ellis Burnett to get the low down on Villa, how they have prepared for the new season, thoughts on the game, and much more.
TEB: So far this season, Villa have drawn at home to Newcastle and narrowly lost to Brentford. Thoughts on the start?
EB: It’s been concerning to be honest. The performances haven’t been terrible, but the team struggle in the final third despite having a lot of possession. Once we get a goal though, I can see us pushing on but, that elusive goal is hard to visual currently.
TEB: A very good campaign last term for Villa ended with a 6th place finish ensuring European qualification. What are your thoughts on the last campaign overall?
EB: Last season was a series of nearly moments. Reaching the Champions League quarter finals, the FA Cup semi finals (albeit completely capitulating against Palace) and missing out on consecutive Champions League qualifications on the final day. There are some positives to take from last term so hopefully Villa can push on this season, however, that does seem quite far away currently.
TEB: How was pre-season for the club?
EB: Pre-season was average but did come with plenty of ups and downs. The most important thing for Villa was coming out of it with a healthy and fit squad which was the case.
TEB: Opinions on Villa’s transfer activity so far? Are there any areas that still need improvement?
EB: There’s still a lot of work to do but with the restrictions placed on the club do not help. In the second half of last season, we relied heavily on the loan market with the likes of Asensio and Rashford. The quality we have after those loans ended seems to have hurt us. A new back up goalkeeper has been brought in who impressed in Martinez’s absence against Newcastle. Evan Guessand is also a new face who has shone in the short cameos he’s made thus far. I believe the squad still lacks a centre back, right back and an attacker.
TEB: Are there any wildcards at Villa that you feel will step up and make an impact this season?
EB: I’m a massive fan of Donyell Malen! When he’s come on, he looks very clinical and makes a real impact on the game. For some reason though, it seems Emery prefers other options. When given the chance I fully believe Malen will shine this season.
TEB: It’s been well documented that the club are frustrated by PSR rules with Emery also approaching the subject recently. From a neutral’s perspective it seems Villa do often spend money. What do the fans think of the situation?
EB: It’s a frustrating one because the issue ultimately stems from a wage bill which was caused by old CEO Purslow and his fraud of a mate Gerrard. They signed mediocre players to expensive long term contracts. The club have worked hard to try and reduce that wage bill by offloading the likes of Leander Dendoncker, Alex Moreno and heartbreakingly, Jacob Ramsey too amongst others.
The issue now is that we can’t go on to replace those names or strengthen the squad while the likes of Chelsea, Liverpool and United seem to be spending without consequence. It does feel as though the rules are there to protect the so called ‘Big Six’ while the likes of Villa, Newcastle, and Forest are left behind.
TEB: What are your thoughts on Palace and how do you feel we will fare this campaign?
EB: It’s hard to know what to expect. Losing Ebere Eze is going to be tough, and he will take some replacing. I don’t expect Palace to be fighting for European spots but additionally I can’t see you being anywhere near the bottom. My guess is another season of finishing mid table, however, I’m excited to see how Palace get on in the Conference League.
TEB: Early ambitions for the season?
EB: A trophy. We have to convert ourselves from the nearly team to the team that gets the job done. A high league position would be a plus but it’s surely time for Villa to win a trophy. Whilst I wouldn’t complain at a FA Cup or League Cup win, the priority should be the Europa League to try and regain a place in the Champions League.
TEB: Prior to the game at Villa Park, is there a weak link in the Villa line up that Palace should be looking to exploit?
EB: The right-hand side of the pitch is a worry. Matty Cash isn’t the strongest of players but there’s a big boost in Ezri Konsa returning to the line up after suspension. Boubacar Kamara will be a big loss in the middle of the park after he picked up an injury, but the biggest problem Villa have is putting the ball in the net.
TEB: Expectations for the game this weekend including final score prediction?
EB: I’m not particularly looking forward to the match. In recent times Villa have struggled against Palace and being in poor form is an additional concern. However, I’m going to try and remain positive and go for a 2-0 home win. All the best for the rest of the season (except for Sunday and the return fixture!).
