Tim Sherwood has spoken to the press today about the Crystal Palace game, Jack Grealish and the team news.
Team news…
Sherwood said that the squad was “pretty healthy” with a few players returning last Monday against Derby County in a U21 game. Both Jack Grealish and Carlos Gill played with the Villa boss describing it as being “satisfying”. He also said that the only two to miss the tie will be Jores Okore and Jose Angel Crespo who are both still out.
On creativity…
“We need creativity. It’s just a shame that two of the most creative players in the side have been injured at the same time. Now they are getting back towards fitness and it will change us going forward.”
On whether they can play together…
“You can play both of them. They enjoy playing together. I think if anyone watched the game on Monday – albeit a U21 game – they just passed the ball to each other. They enjoy each other’s company. They are both technically gifted and we can find a position on the pitch for both of them.”
On Jack Grealish ability…
“He’s such a talented boy. He’s a superb talent for this football club and I want to nurture him to fulfil his potential which is immense. He’s a one off on the pitch. He’s an exceptional talent.”
On Adama Traore…
It looks like the Villa faithful will not see much of Adama Traore yet. Sherwood said that Traore is a “development player” and that “he’s (Traore) been brought in here for the future” The Villa boss went on to say that he was hopeful Traore will play at “some stage this season” The new signing made his first appearance for Villa’s development squad on Monday v Derby.
On what areas he’s looking at in transfer window…
With the rumour mill still in full swing Sherwood was again asked about his transfer dealings. He went on to say how he was looking to enhance “any department” and that he was trying “to get a better balance” during this year’s campaign.
On the transfer window…
Sherwood revealed the length of people involved in transfers at Villa saying it is a “team effort” With himself “plus the scouting network and the chairman.” The former-Spurs manager went on to say that they were “all deciding” on what is “best for the future” of Villa.
“We are working together to try and achieve that. If you look the average age of our signings is probably 23. It’s really for the future – but it’s very important to me that we’re in this division.”
On how long it will take the team to gel…
“Hopefully very soon. You’ll be able to tell me when it’s happened!”
