3. Will Bring Back English Culture
Is it any coincidence that the two clubs who opted for introducing a French revolution are sitting at the bottom of the Premier League table? Newcastle United have tried to make amends with the signings of Jonjo Shelvey and Andros Townsend, but it could prove too little too late. Last summer, Villa allowed Sherwood to spend over £30m on players who had spent their entire career playing in France, whether that be in Ligue 1 or below. The general consensus is that buying players from the opposite side of the English Channel provides value for money, but if this season is anything to go by, it doesn't guarantee your top-flight status. Villa need a man who is not going to waste time with persisting with players who are not going to be a success in England. Jordan Amavi can be excused because he has been injured for most of the season, but Idrissa Gueye, Jordan Ayew and Jordan Veretout should be on the first plane out of Birmingham and Neville would ensure that would take place. He would also waste little time before bringing in players who understand English football and appreciate the opportunity of playing for a club the size of Villa. They are at a low ebb right now, but an influx of English talent could help lift them from the doldrums.
Darren Plant
Contributor
A degree-educated, dart-throwing, non-smelling sports journalist based in a small Staffordshire town that has just become Floyd Mayweather's answer to the question: "What's the strangest place you have ever visited?"
See more from
Darren