Midlands | A review of another successful season for Aston Villa

Villa fan Peter Grainger has been reflecting on another great season at Villa Park

The season's highlights included winning a first major trophy since 1996.

Who has been the player of the season and why?

Matty Cash has been outstanding. With no reliable deputy at right-back, he has carried the burden of the role throughout the campaign, making 45 appearances while also contributing goals and assists. His development over the past year has been striking.

What has been the best moment and why?

Villa lifting their first trophy in 30 years, and their first piece of European silverware since 1982, stands as the defining moment of the season. Supporters of every generation will agree that night in Istanbul has already taken on legendary status.

Who has been your unsung hero and why?

Emiliano Buendía’s return last summer did not generate huge excitement at the time, but he went on to deliver some of Villa’s most memorable moments of the season. From the brilliant strike against Freiburg to the dramatic late winner against Arsenal, the Argentine proved invaluable.

What was the best atmosphere during the season?

The Europa League semi-final against Nottingham Forest at Villa Park was a special occasion. It was a bit nervy at the start but it felt like the players and fans connected as one. 

What was the biggest disappointment?

The decision to loan Donyell Malen to Roma in January never seemed particularly convincing and that view has only strengthened. Since moving to Serie A he has scored 14 goals in 18 appearances. Signing Tammy Abraham as a replacement for Malen currently looks questionable business.

What needs to change this summer?

Villa’s recruitment has too often fallen short in recent years. A strong summer window will be vital, one that keeps hold of the club’s leading players, moves others on where necessary and brings in the quality required to push Unai Emery’s side forward again.

What's your major hope for next season?

The priority now is to build on this success and maintain the momentum. Supporters have waited three decades for silverware and there is little appetite for another long drought. Competing consistently among the elite while continuing to add trophies has to be the aim.