An Interview with a Rival... Aston Villa

Ahead of tonight’s clash with Aston Villa Keith Ingham spoke with the gangliest bowler you’ve ever seen and Villa Fan Chris Herbert.

Chris, a quick reminder how long you’ve followed ‘The Villa’ and why you picked them as your team?

Followed them all my life and the first game I saw was away at Bradford City which Villa won 4-2. I chose them due to my grandad & dad.

Favourite recent era or one from the history books?

I would say the football they played under Martin O'neill was the best I've ever seen at Villa Park. Good cup runs and 4 consecutive 6th placed finishes on the bounce.

Favourite ever player or players?

Past Players: Dwight Yorke, Olof Mellberg, Ashley Young,
Current Players: Kodjia, Terry, Grealish

Steve Bruce hasn’t always been a fans favourite because of his City links, do you think he’s done a good job thus far?

Poor season last year, but a lot of injuries didn’t help the cause. This season has been a lot better, just inconsistent. Beat top of the league Wolves comfortable 4-1, the don’t win any of them next 3 against QPR, Bolton and Hull (no disrespect to any of them, but should have been 9 points there).

Robert Snodgrass has been tearing defences up this season. Signing of the season or could you mention another?

Keeping Sam Johnstone on loan again for the season, plus the signing of John Terry rank amongst the signings of the season, but the Snodgrass signing is most definitely up there as well. Hopefully Villa can keep hold of them all.

Player who typifies your team?

Jon Terry

Player you’ve seen come through this season you rate highly?

Jack Grealish. Had a lot of potential in recent years but never lived upto it. Although he has had a few niggling injuries this season, he has clearly shown what he can do.

Top two to go up from the Championship, one to go up via the Playoffs?

Wolves, Fulham up automatically, and I've got to say Villa for playoffs haven’t i?!

Three for the drop this season?

Burton, Sunderland, Bolton

Prediction and Scorers for Fridays televised match?

Heart says 3-1 Villa. Grealish, Hourihane and Grabban. Head says 1-1. Grealish

We’d like to wish Chris the best of luck as the Villains continue their promotion push. At least one team in this conversation can have a good go!

By Keith Ingham