Sheriff Kimbo from Vital Villa has answered some questions ahead of Sunday’s game at Villa Park.
1. Despair to euphoria in the space of such a short time. A defeat to Wigan and a victory over Liverpool, which Villa side are Fulham likely to face on Sunday?
Well our home form over the last year might suggest that we’ll be closer to the Wigan game! But I’m not sure we will be that bad again. To be honest I think a fair bit of it depends on the formation; we nearly always look better playing 4-5-1.
2. How do you see our respective seasons going?
I think we would both be pleased to consolidate on last seasons position. I was obviously disappointed to see us crash out of Europe last night, however I genuinely believe it can benefit us in the league, especially with Spurs and Man City not having Europe to worry about either; for instance I don’t believe Everton would have finished 5th last season had they stayed in Europe.
I would predict top-half finishes for both sides, it may be too early to tell where in the pack we’ll finally shuffle to though!
3. Can Villa gate-crash the big four or are you as far away as ever?
Well, we can, because last season we lost it more than Arsenal won it. I think that if we get a settled defence and play 4-5-1 regularly, then we can give it a real go. Warnock and (hopefully) Dunne, plus the return of Luke Young and Bouma can certainly strengthen us at back, the formation though is down to the manager.
4. For our benefit, was it worth competing in Europe last season or did it just get in the way?
I’ve sort of answered that in question 2 haven’t I! For us it was clearly a distraction in the end. The one thing I will say is that if you give it a real go, you could be an outside bet to win it, because I think Hodgson is a shrewd manager who keeps you solid at the back. In fact, I might even have a cheekly couple of quid on you now we’re out!
5. Who should Fulham be wary of in your team?
I suppose Ashley Young is the obvious answer. If Carew and/or Agbonlahor are playing and anywhere near their best, they are always a handful; Carew especially, when on his game, is unplayable. James Milner will never, ever stop running and is more capable of causing problems than some give him credit for, although he can be frustrating.
6. Anyone of our players you`d like to steal away before the transfer window slams shut?
Assuming I can have them, I’ll take Schwarzer and Hangeland. Probably Danny Murphy as well. Actually I’ll be greedy and take Clint Dempsey too, although he’ll be more of a squad player. Ah, thanks!
7. Vindaloo or Madras?
Madras, although even that is probably too hot for my wussy tastes! {Chicken Pathia… JF!}
8. A result for Sunday please?
My head is thinking a draw as I usually feel a little less confident at Villa Park, but my life has proven that I never listen to my brain so I’ll say 2-1 to the Villa.
Cheers!
With thanks to Sheriff Kimbo at: www.astonvilla.vitalfootball.co.uk
My interview on Vital Villa: Click Here
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