Villa are set to face off against Everton this evening – and what better way to get in the mood than to listen to the latest edition of the podcast?
In this edition you’ll hear all about the latest matters from the VillaVerse as well as coverage from big issues from the world of football more broadly.
IN THIS EDITION
Mile Jedinak confirmed his retirement from professional football this week. The former Australia Captain ended his playing career at Villa Park and is now a feature of the academy at Villa Park.
The big news on the FFP front, a topic familiar to most Villa fans, is that of Manchester City overturning their two year Champions League ban. Not only does the decision have ramifications for the current Premier League table, but it once more brings the effectiveness of financial fair play and UEFA into the spotlight.
Then there is the looming challenges faced by ‘crisis clubs’, with Wigan Athletic the latest side to fall into administration due to dubious ownership arrangements. We discuss what has become of the fit and proper test and how it’s failing to protect clubs, as it failed to do with Villa just a few seasons ago.
You’ll also hear reflection on the story that broke before Villa’s win over Crystal Palace (2-0). Wilfred Zaha received a series of racist images via Instagram from what transpired to be a 12 year old boy. Is social and mass media outrage the way to effectively deal with such serious issues? Or is educating the ignorant the means to make lasting, meaningful change?
There is also the question of what will happen with Covid-19 on-going and the news that the Premier League does not intend to screen all games live on TV next season. With the transition to stadiums full of fans remaining unclear, how are supporters going to watch their team? It’s impact upon following Villa will, however, depend upon which division we end up in!
VILLA OUTLOOK
Villa looked in pretty poor shape after the Manchester United (0-3) defeat but have a glimmer of survival hope after a vital victory over Crystal Palace (2-0).
You’ll hear analysis of a controversial VAR decision going in our favour and how two goals from Mahmoud Trezeguet take us into the Everton game with some hope.
We look at Dean Smith’s immediate task at hand, which is to go game by game, with the only objective being victory at Goodison Park.
You can listen to the latest edition of the podcast by following this link or using the player below:
Everton is genuinely a must-win for Villa is we are to gain any real charge towards survival. We’ve compiled a list of the 30 Key Facts & Stats ahead of kick off (18:00 GMT), with a full Match Preview + Team News available one hour prior.
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