Chairman's Programme Notes: Aston Villa

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2021-01-27T17:12:06.404Z

Chairman's Programme Notes: Aston Villa

2021-01-27T17:12:06.404Z

Alan's notes ahead of this afternoon's game

It’s great to be back at Turf Moor tonight after a fantastic week for the club.

Thursday’s victory at the champions, Liverpool, will live long in the memory of Clarets fans, and I couldn’t be prouder of the players and management for a special performance that ended Burnley’s 45-year wait for a victory at Anfield and saw us become the first Premier League side to win there in nearly four years.

It was hard-fought and skilful performance, which showed the world that our talented and committed group of players and coaches can win at the very highest level. Even when the odds are stacked firmly against us.

To have won at Anfield, Emirates Stadium and Old Trafford within the last 12 months shows just how far the club has come in recent seasons, and the great opportunity for us to build on that hard work and take Burnley to the next level.

Thursday’s victory on Merseyside was followed-up by a fantastic 3-0 win in the capital on Sunday, as the team beat Fulham to earn a place in the Fifth Round of the FA Cup for the first time since 2017.

Chairman's Programme Notes: Aston Villa - Image 1

I have longed admired the tradition and heritage of the FA Cup, so was delighted to see us progress in the competition. I look forward to the home tie against AFC Bournemouth.

Before then, we have another Premier League double-header to contest, with two games in five days against tonight’s visitors Aston Villa and Chelsea on Sunday.

Now seven points clear of the relegation zone, tonight’s game presents an opportunity to move even further up the table, while the visit to Stamford Bridge is another chance for Sean and the team to test themselves against one of the Premier League’s big boys.

Away from the busy fixture schedule, I know that Monday will also be earmarked in many supporters’ diaries, as Transfer Deadline Day.

The January Transfer Window is always a tricky one for clubs to negotiate, and it has been even more difficult this season, with many clubs reluctant to let players go from their squads given the congested fixture calendar and risk of COVID-19 isolation.

I have been disappointed that we haven’t been able to add to the squad, but I can assure you that is not for lack of trying.

The fact that, at the time of writing, there have been just six new signings across the entire Premier League, gives a strong indication of the challenging marketplace we are operating in.

I remain committed to helping Sean strengthen the side in areas where he feels it is required, but that process will take time. Our approach will be one of evolution rather than revolution, as we look to build on the strong performances in recent weeks and reach our goals for this season.

Here’s to continuing our good form tonight.

Alan

@AlanPaceBFC