Sherwood has made the right decision sticking with Guzan – Oli Mackenzie
Regardless of how few and far between United’s chances were, Guzan was inch perfect at almost every opportunity that came his way. Januzaj’s goal was difficult for any goalkeeper to deal with. Yet the aggression he showed storming to the line against Memphis Depay along with his strong command of the area, throughout the game was top stuff. His improved distribution of the ball shows that the American has worked very hard in rekindling his form, and if can keep it up – he could become imperative for Villa later on in the season.
Ayew’s needs time – Oli Mackenzie
It’s hard and may seem unfair to give criticism so early in a player’s career, but Jordan Ayew really needs to show more to keep his place in Villa’s starting XI. The young Frenchman wasn’t helped by Tim Sherwood’s direct tactics, that restricted his ability to use his pace – leaving him with a big disadvantage because of his height. However, his absent nature in front of goal should be no major concern yet. The Ghanian will need time to settle down.
Midfield off the pace – Cillian Moore
In a bitterly disappointing 1-0 defeat at home to Manchester United, Aston Villa’s midfield had mixed reviews and rightfully so. With the likes of Jordan Veretout sometimes struggling to deal with the Manchester United advances. Although their forward line was at fault for their lack of goals, Villa’s supply from midfield was simply not good enough. New French signing Jordan Veretout looked off the boil and was subbed midway through the second half. There were some signs of promise from the second half with some slick balls forward by Ashley Westwood, and Idrissa Gueye – it never amounted to much, though. Juan Mata was allowed to dominate and dictate play all game.
Jordan Amavi is a class above – Matt Lynch
Jordan Amavi has already proved to be a class act at left-back banishing memories of past left-backs such as Aly Cissokho who never really did much good for the Villans. Amavi could already have a bag full of assists and that’s only after the first two games of the season. The Frenchman’s forward movement is a joy to watch with his defensive ability equally as good – keeping the likes of Juan Mata fairly quiet on Friday.
