Four points from six, Alex McLeish is off to a flyer and even Emile Heskey is chipping in with the goals. Things are pretty good at the moment at Villa Park in terms of the start we have had, even sitting momentarily at the summit of the Premier League – something we had not done since the autumn of 2001.
The Carling Cup takes centre stage this week. League 2 outfit Hereford United will make the visit to Villa Park tomorrow night for our second-round encounter.
We have avoided this stage in the last three seasons due to our commitments in the UEFA Europa League.
It is a welcome change having one of our more humble local neighbours making the short trip up the M5. The Bulls picked up their first point and goal at the weekend against AFC Wimbledon thanks to a goal by Delroy Facey. Although it would be safe to assume this will be a walk in the park for an established Premier League club, stranger things have happened in the game we love and on any given night, heart and desire can overcome ability. The visitors will be looking to upset the apple cart that is for sure.
It is more than likely Big Eck will field the likes of Stephen Ireland, Jean Makoun and Nathan Delfouneso tomorrow to give them game time – having missed the opening two league games.
There has been a rumour or two regarding the future of the enigmatic Makoun, that he may be seeking pastures new. Personally, I hope this is just another fabricated whisper as the Cameroonian has plenty to offer.
Vital Quotes:
With Gabriel Agbonlahor, Emile Heskey and Luke Young all picking up niggles in the 3-1 win against Blackburn, their services will not be required for tomorrow.
McLeish confirmed after the game he would assess the trio in the coming days – having one eye on the game against Wolverhampton Wanderers this Saturday lunchtime:
‘Luke took a kick in the knee and we will assess that tomorrow. I am not sure if it’s serious. Gabby took a kick in the hamstring so it was a kick and not a pull but it did restrict his sprinting which is a huge part of his weaponry. He scored a delightful goal. We think he will be okay. Emile was a wee bit tight in the abductor/ groin area. He felt a wee twinge. He works ever so hard. It’s important we didn’t take any chance with him either.`
‘We will have to wait and see. We believe Gabby and Emile will be okay. We don’t know the extent of Luke. But if it’s a kick, he should be alright aswell.’
Meanwhile Hereford chairman David Keyte has described his club`s visit to Villa Park as ‘the perfect` tie for them.
Speaking to BBC Hereford and Worcester, he said:
‘I think it is probably the perfect one for Hereford at this stage. To get a Premier League side and the one most local to us geographically is probably the best draw for us and our supporters to have a great night out.`
Aston Villa Team News:
Ideal opportunity for McLeish to fully utilise his squad. Ciaran Clarke, Marc Albrighton and Barry Bannan should all figure with Nathan Delfouneso potentially leading the attack.
Will be interesting to see just how many of his senior players he opts to rest.
Player to watch: Barry Bannan
The stocky Scot impressed with his cameo appearance at the weekend, linking up superbly in midfield with a free role just behind Darren Bent. He looked sharp on the ball and demonstrated his agility by weaving into little pockets of space.
Hereford United Team News:
Full-back Joe Heath is out with suspected fractured ribs. Regular goalkeeper Adam Bartlett is still struggling with a thigh injury. Rob Purdie is also doubtful.
Player to watch: Delroy Facey
Delboy has been round the block in his career, playing for no less than 14 clubs. The 31-year-old signed for The Whites back in June on a one year deal.
Match Facts & Stats
The last time we met Hereford in the competition was in January 1973, winning 4-1.
Match Prediction:
Nothing less than a comfortable win for the Villans.
4-0.
Next Fixtures:
Wolves will be making a visit to Villa Park for the lunchtime kick-off this Saturday.
Meanwhile you can catch up with me for a chat on all things claret and blue at Twitter.
@RossMackiewicz
