The Football League Paper

says... There’s lots at stake on derby day

AS ASTON Villa gear up to take on Birmingham City in the first Second City derby of the season this afternoon, some will no doubt dismiss it as a mid-table battle of significance only to those involved.

But with the Championship so tight this season, that would be a mistake. Any team that can string a few results together can put themselves in contention.

A victory for either side would take them to within four points of the play-offs. On home turf, Villa will be favourites to take the spoils and it’s going to be a massive day for Villa boss Dean Smith.

It will be the boyhood Villa fan’s first derby against the Blues and he will be desperate to bag all three points. There were signs in their impressive 3-0 victory at Derby before the international break that his troops are buying into his methods.

Villa have definitely got the players to make an assault on promotion, there’s little doubt about that. They need to find some consistency and do the ugly things so their skill can then shine through.

That’s partly why this test against Birmingham this afternoon is so intriguing. In recent times, Villa have often looked like a team of individuals.

The Blues, on the other hand, are an extremely well-drilled side. They are strong defensively, albeit they have had a blip in their last two games, and have got players who are dangerous on the counter.

If Villa are not on their game, then the Blues have players like Jota, Che Adams and Lukas Jutkiewicz who can do damage. Manager Garry Monk knows what he’s doing and will have his team well briefed about Villa’s threats.

There will be a terrific atmosphere and both teams will go at it hammer and tongs. Cool heads will be required on the day and the winners will have some real momentum to build on – and every chance of getting into the promotion race.

Shrewd Neal is a step ahead

BEST wishes to Neal Ardley as he prepares to take over in the Notts County hotseat (see back page). Kevin Nolan and Harry Kewell have already exited this season, so that gives you an idea of what a tough task it could be. Getting in a holiday before he starts is a clever move...