End of 2024 Reaction, Rant & Reality
Aston Villa’s last game against Brighton that closed out the year, was in many way the epitome of their performances in 2024. Some decent play and control, undermined by sloppy defensive mistakes and missed chances. There’s no doubt that in the first half of the 2024/25 Premier League season, they have undermined their true potential in terms of league position with unforced errors and a lack of clinical edge. Villa should be comfortably in the top four, if they had closed out games they were ahead in – not team has conceded more goals (11) in the last 15 minutes of games, and that’s where many league points have evaporated.
In the latest episode of the My Old Man Said podcast, brings a candid reaction to Aston Villa’s recent matches against Brighton and Newcastle. As 2025 begins, the episode takes a closer look at where Villa are faltering and what needs to change if European ambitions for next season are to remain realistic. Here are five key points covered in the latest episode:
1. Big Chances Missed: Ollie Watkins Under Pressure
Villa’s star striker, Ollie Watkins, is once again in the spotlight for his inability to convert opportunities. While he continues to impress with his work rate and movement, his growing tally of big chances missed is becoming a concern. As the show discusses, if he doesn’t find a more clinical edge, Watkins may face increasing competition from Jhon Durán, who continues to improve.
2. Defensive Fragility: A Longstanding Problem
The podcast delves into Villa’s ongoing defensive woes. With 19 goals conceded in the nine away games, Villa’s backline continues to undermine the team’s efforts. The absence of Pau Torres due to injury may compound the issue further or alternatively lead to Emery siding on being more pragmatic in an attempt to shore up the backline.
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3. Brighton Reaction: A Missed Opportunity
Villa’s 2-2 draw with Brighton showcased the team’s inability to yet again manage a lead. Despite a strong start to the second half, a lack of composure and questionable tactical decisions allowed Brighton back into the game. The hosts debate Emery’s decision-making and Villa’s recurring struggles against mid-table opposition.
4. Newcastle Defeat: Boxing Day Blues Continue
The 3-0 loss to Newcastle highlighted Villa’s fragility on big occasions. A red card for Durán compounded the team’s misery as Newcastle capitalised on their numerical advantage. With five red cards on Boxing Day in the Premier League era, Villa’s festive form remains as predictable as ever.
5. Champions League Focus: Time to Prioritise?
As Villa’s league campaign falters, the discussion turns to whether Emery should shift focus entirely to the Champions League. With several promising young players improving, including Durán and Morgan Rogers, the podcast speculates whether Villa’s best hope for a successful season lies in Europe, if they can make the top eight of the league stage.
Listen Now
Catch all this and more on the latest My Old Man Said podcast. Available on your favorite podcast platforms or listen below:
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