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O’Neill’s Thoughts on Transfer Window
The transfer window has come at the right time for us, injuries to Luke Young and Nicky Shorey have depleted our defence and I will be looking to sign at least one defender to cover in their absence. Our new acquisition of Denis Kolodin could possibly fill in, in defence if needed and could be an option for the mean time. I am expecting a number of bids for a number of the boys and this could be a huge setback for our top four chances. A number of clubs have already approached us in regards to Ashley Young and Gabriel Agbonlahor and the loss of these two stars will mean a total switch in our attack that will take some time to adjust to.

Thankfully Gareth has committed himself to the club and I have rewarded that with the captaincy. Hopefully this will keep some of the others at the club, but with bigger clubs able to throw endless amounts of money at the players now a days, I have sent out scouts to keep their eyes on a number of players as possible replacements. Discussing our future plans with John (Robertson-assistant manager) and Steve (Walford-first team coach) we all agree that it would be a good idea to bring in a number of younger players to the squad. This will also be something we will hope to accomplish in January, allowing them time to adjust for the start of next season, possibly looking at loaning them out to the 2nd division teams if need be.

I am fearful of losing Agbonlahor and Young but know that with the funds we would receive for them, we will find suitable replacements. Randy has given us more funds for transfers than i expected so hopefully the January window will be an eventful one for Aston Villa.

Gabriel Agbonlahor could be leaving Villa Park.