Regardless of what has happened since, there’s a reason why Aston Villa fans may not want to cast their minds back to the opening day of the season. Having approached the season full of optimism Unai Emery’s team were thrashed 5-1 by Newcastle. The hosts were rampant, and, buoyed by the scoreline, the campaign promised to be another successful stepping stone as the Saudi riches rolled on.
As with much of life, that’s not how it panned out. In fact, for both sides, that result was somewhat of an anomaly.
For that day’s hosts the victory that promised much turned out to be the highlight of a season so far that, far from being a disaster, has not hit the heights of their last campaign. Hampered by FFP they are unable to splash the cash as their fans would hope and may even have to sell before the end of the window.
For Villa, the result was an extremely rare low point in a campaign that has seen them settled in the top four and beat title-chasers Manchester City and Arsenal.
Such has been Villa’s form that before Christmas many had them, understandably, as title contenders. Defeat to Manchester United and just one game in January – an underwhelming 0-0 draw against Everton – has slightly got in the way of the side’s momentum. But victory against the visitors tonight would give any lingering hopes of a title push a much-needed shot in the arm and once again underline the freak nature of the opening-day defeat.
Acknowledging that their season had been tough Emery said his side are aware that Newcastle will still pose a big challenge at Villa Park tonight.
“They are not being like last year when they had an amazing season, played fantastic and qualified for the Champions League. They were successful in the cups as well,” the Villa manager said.
“This year is different, but my respect has not changed. We are going to respect them like they deserve and we are ready for tomorrow.”
Stay here for all the team news and pre-match analysis ahead of kick-off which is all set for 8.15.