Author: Tom Chape

One of the many impressive elements that have impressed me since Dean Smith’s appointment is how he conducts himself in interviews. He arrived in B6 with a glowing reference from those who had previously met him during his career. Those who have worked him have praised him as a man and his positive influence he has at a football club. There is one real notable difference between him and his predecessor, Steve Bruce, in these interviews. It isn’t necessarily his manner but the language, tactical awareness and positivity he displays. It is of stark contrast to that displayed by the previous…

In recent years, the FA Cup, rightly or wrongly, has become an opportunity for those not getting regular first team football. It also represents a game which means we can test the metal of our potential stars. Dean Smith will be well aware that although fans like a run in the FA Cup, the League is a priority. With a big attendance anticipated on Saturday, Smith may opt for more first team players than he would like. Fans will want to see a performance. We have already beaten Swansea City on two occasions so far this season. Most bookies would…

The footballing world has long known the talent and ability of Jack Grealish. Aston Villa has come to rely heavily on their talisman but what happens when he is unavailable? Those who don’t watch Villa on a weekly basis will probably fail to realise just how important he is to the team. His ability to attract 2-3 players to him frees up space for his teammates. Grealish picked up a horrible injury last pre-season but has since become a regular in the starting 11. Given a consistent run of games under Steve Bruce he flourished and became pivotal to the…

I am unsure if it is the case with all teams or just Villa but it does seem like there is always a player under focus from our fans. You know, someone who is identified as the weak link. The player who regularly makes the starting 11. That player who the fans don’t share the same belief in as the manager. In the past players like Joleon Lescott and Ashley Westwood spring to mind. Rightly or wrongly they were pinpointed by supporters. They are the kind of players who incites debate and conversation. Our goalkeeper, Orjan Nyland seems to be…

Villa fans can feel vindicated by the recent run of not only points but eye-catching attacking football. It had become boring and predictable under Steve Bruce. We needed to modernise on the pitch and under Dean Smith we are clearly demonstrating we had the players to do it. As Alex highlights it is more than just a new manager bounce and I feel Tammy Abraham is a great example of this. Initially, I was underwhelmed by Tammy. A player who’s glorious form at Bristol City was widely acknowledged. A young player who had been a part of the England squad, a…

Derby games are notoriously difficult to predict. It often can be one moment which sparks a positive result. None more so than in a Second City derby which has been tightly contested in recent times. It is the perfect game for players which could turn them into heroes with supporters. The way the two teams set up and with current results, I can see Sunday being particularly tight. Garry Monk will have his team well organised and compact. Being away from home, I think they will set up with a defensive approach and look to play towards their target man,…

In my previous articles, I have spoken about different areas of the pitch. Last week we took a look at just how important Axel Tuanzebe was becoming for Dean Smith. This week I will focus purely on our midfield. If any team in football are to dominate a game over the opponent then the midfield battle is always key. It was clear to see that towards the end of last season, it appeared that we have found the right balance. We had the attacking threat of Jack Grealish, supporters by Conor Hourihane and Birkir Bjarnason. Hourihane offered a box to…

It could be argued that the decision to not play Axel Tuanzebe in his natural position at centre back, was the catalyst for Steve Bruce losing his job. Bruce continued to mystify fans by not playing the on-loan defender in his natural position. He undermined the defensive stability in his own team. Mr Reliable and Bruce’s captain James Chester’s performances dipped. Understandably he looked unsure for the first time in his Villa career. Partnered by Mile Jedinak it seemed at times Chester was too worried and preoccupied with protecting and covering Jedinak’s lack of pace. Despite the evidence, Bruce didn’t…

Dean Smith may have only been in charge for two games but it is clear to see there are changes at the club. Already, our style of play is starting look better on the eye. The upbeat interviews, discussing tactics, positives and negatives. The overall atmosphere around the club and fans seem better. A passing progressive style will take time, but it is clear to see that the foundations for this are already being laid. The defence is being encouraged to take more time on the ball. The passing is to be considered and measured rather than rushed and cleared.…

It is clear to see on social media and fan forums that the appointment of Dean Smith has given fans a lift. Although some were a little underwhelmed at first, you can’t help but be impressed by what he has to say. As the club keep telling us, he is one of our own and we are as desperate for him to succeed as he is. Here are a few things that could benefit on his Smith’s first match day: The Atmosphere There is no doubt there will be an entirely different atmosphere for our new Head Coach’s first game…