Villa – From The Heart

Don’t underestimate the legacy

Villa fans have had a lot to put up with over the last 20 years; the highs (1990, 1993, 1994, 1996, 2000) but the momentum could never be maintained; and the lows (numerous) which still cause me pain when looking back.

Every club has their share of ups and downs but never in my lifetime (born 1969) has expectation been so great. That’s why this pre-season has been so upsetting for all fans Claret & Blue (not West Ham, NOT Burnley, but Aston Villa, who’s Chairman instigated the Football League).

I can never put into words how overjoyed I was when Martin O’Neill and Randy Lerner rescued our great club for the hands of mediocrity. That is why the disappointment by the lack of transfer activity in the close season has bitten so hard.

I buy into the 5 year plan; I appreciate it will take time for AVFC to gain our rightful place; but Martin, Randy you must understand why the lack of transfer activity is so hurting the fans. We are used to being disappointed, but this time, THIS TIME, we thought we wouldn’t be. I have belief; I believe the transfer market is tougher than ever, but if we enter 1st September with 20 or so players I also believe that Villa fans will not be forgiving. We will hit November and December with injuries and suspensions and we will tumble down the league. That we won’t forgive.

There is a chance though. If the owners and management of AVFC have been astute enough we will land quality players before the deadline (more likely next week than this week) and then Mr Lerner and Mr O’Neill you will have the backing of 40,000+ at Villa Park week-in week-out and you will have my backing (and the backing of a Claret & Blue Army of obsessive supporters).

Got for it, do it, we’re all waiting to get behind you.