Claret & Blue Army's Views: #3

There has been a lot of instability at our club, last season and then the first quarter of the summer, and manager Alex McLeish has to rectify that. His appointment from relegated rivals was met with protests by some Villa fans and if the team get off to a poor start, starting with Fulham today, then all sorts of questions will be asked. Not only of McLeish but Mr Randy Lerner and Co.

My third interview is with Dan Matthews, you can follow him on twitter @Dan_Matthews_ http://twitter.com/#!/Dan_Matthews_

1) How did you feel about the appointment of Alex McLeish?

Surprised and shocked at first, but now he's here I've got on with it and will support him throughout his time here. He needs to go attacking; get rid of the attached myth that he is too defensive as a manager. Hopefully with our squad he'll look to win games with flair!

2) Where do you think we'll finish this season?

11th. I can't see us doing better with the loss of Ashley Young and Stewart Downing, but hopefully Zoggy (N'Zogbia) will come in and help Benty and Gabby with the goals! I'm hopeful we're improving defensively on last season though. We were awful at that part of the game last season, so hopefully Eck's got them working over time on that area. Clean sheets needed!

3) What do you make of your summer, pre-season and transfers?

I'm very happy with who we've signed this summer. Given is at top goalkeeper and Zoggy has enormous potential. Letting Nigel Reo-Coker go was a mistake though, we're missing some steel in the middle of the park now which could be exposed early in the season. We need to sign a few more players, a steely central midfielder, a winger and defensive cover. I'd love to see Kyle Walker come back on loan!

4) Who do you think will stand out this season? For good or bad.

Ciaran Clark. I think this will be a big season for him, I'm hoping Delph comes on this campaign too!

 

5) Looking ahead to fulham, what do you expect to see?

A bright, enthusiastic start. Maybe a bit of rustiness, but as long as the lads work hard for each other, I can see us getting a draw. 1-1.

 

6) Do you think McLeish has enforced an element of togetherness within he squad, compared to Houllier?

Yes. I don't think Houllier really had togetherness at all! McLeish seems to have the players behind him so it's a positive sign to see.

 

7) As a fan, are you backing the manager?

Yes, I'm not a fan of him but while he's here, he'll get my support. UTV!

 

Thanks to Dan for doing this. Today is the big day! Let's hear it for the boys in claret and blue!!