2. Aston Villa Are Not The Same Side Without Ron Vlaar
Aston Villa looked very suspect at the back during Sunday's encounter with Fulham and there is a simple explanation as to why there was no Ron Vlaar. The Villians' captain has become an instrumental part of Lambert's side since he moved to the Midlands from Dutch outfit Feyenoord. Vlaar is a leader and organiser, qualities Villa greatly missed against Fulham. The defence was at times shambolic, failing to keep its shape as the Whites dominated large parts of the game. Vlaar is currently injured with a calf problem and Lambert admitted after the game he is unsure when he will return. If the Midlands club are to continue their solid start to the season fans should be hoping that the 28-year-old is back sooner rather than later.
Simon is an NCTJ qualified sports journalist. He has conducted interviews with Tony Adams and Peter Shilton, while also having work published in The Daily Telegraph and The Sun. Follow him on Twitter via @sr_collings.
