Following Villa successfully putting Liverpool’s youngsters to the sword (5-0), we have been drawn against Leicester City in the Carabao Cup Semi-Finals.
Whilst Villa have faced decidedly weakened opponents in previous rounds (Crewe, Wolves & Liverpool), we now find ourselves at the business end of the competition and have somehow avoided both Manchester sides in the draw.
Whilst Smith’s priority must undoutedly be Premier League survival, the lure of our only realistic chance of silverware is somewhat enticing.
Whilst we were spoiled in the 90’s with two League Cup triumphs over Manchester United (1994) and Leeds (1996), it has been a barren period for the club since.
Leicester, our opponents in January, last won the competition in 2000. They overcame Tranmere Rovers 2-1 to win the then Worthington Cup.
The Foxes certainly represent tough opponents and illustrated this with a rampant performance and 4-1 victory recently at Villa Park.
One would imagine they see this as a great opportunity also, despite having the distraction of being the only viable challengers to runaway league leaders Liverpool.
KEY FACTS
- Semi Final First Leg – King Power Stadium – 7th January 2020
- Semi Final Second Leg – Villa Park – 28th January 2020
- Other Tie: Manchester United vs. Manchester City
- Man City are the current holders and have won 4 of the last 6 years.
It’s been a good ride so far. Leicester will be favourites for good reason. Our Liverpool victory was a hollow one as we played the youth team. Still, you can only beat the 11 put in front of you. It’ll be a spectacle that most Villa supporters that watched Leicester’s visit 2 weeks ago, will be pessimistic over. I hope Smith sticks more or less with the same team.
The overview of taking part in this cup is that it gives players looking to get in the first team, an opportunity to show their ability. Players like Jota, Hause, Nyland and Trez have shown thier worth.