A look ahead to the Spanish showpiece
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Last year it was the Intertoto Cup, this time around it's the Peace Cup - Villa certainly don't play out pre-season in a relaxed fashion these days do they?
The Claret and Blue have already kicked off their season build-up with a win at Peterborough and a creditable draw earned at Colchester, but this is where the things start to get a little more serious.
Of course, Villa will not be too fussed should they in fact lose to Malaga on Saturday and then fail to gain the desired points against Mexican side Atlante on Wednesday, which would see them qualify for the semi-finals of the competition. But, they will be eager to get a good run out against some testing opposition.
Spanish side Malaga, who will be playing on their own turf, will provide a sizeable mountain that must be overcome should Villa hope to make the next stage on Friday.
The Andalusians managed by Lopez Muniz finished 8th in a tough La Liga last season and Martin O'Neill may well be casting his eagle eye over some of the talented Spaniards.
Midfield maestro Apono has already been linked with a move to the Midlands this summer so don't be surprised to see that speculation resurface.
Although Apono may be of some interest to O'Neill, the Northern Irishman's focus will undoubtedly focused on making sure his own players survive the trying encounter.
Long-term injury absentee Wilfred Bouma could be in line for a comeback almost a year to the day since he dislocated his ankle at Villa Park against Odense.
And due to the fact that England Under-21 trio Gabby Agbonlahor, Craig Gardner and James Milner have been left at home, the tournament could provide some useful experience for youngsters such as Barry Bannan and Marc Albrighton.
Badge
The talented wing wizards are more than likely to see some first team action this season, especially considering the astounding lack of signings so far this summer.
Albrighton, in particular, has been impressive during the first two games of this pre-season and it is likely that Ashley Young will be used to mentor his skillful protege.
New signing Stewart Downing is ruled out until December, so the youngsters will be given every chance to shine.
In a competition that includes Real Madrid, Juventus and Lyon, Albrighton and co will have a great opportunity to make a slick impression in Spain.
A win first up against one of the tournament hosts would do nicely and a semi-final place, although not essential, is definitely desired.
O'Neill may be in desperate need of squad bolstering but for now he has the chance to focus on some of last season's lesser lights and for some it will be one last chance to show they are worthy of wearing the Villa badge. Marlon Harewood and Isiaah Osbourne, to name but a couple, may not be at the club come the big kick-off on August 15.
Whatever the results against the Spaniards and the Mexicans and whether or not Villa manage to win the lucrative trophy (the winners receive around £1.5m), the importance of a good pre-season cannot be underestimated.
Whereas last season Villa were busy qualifying for a competition they were destined to throw away, this year there is a sense of more time to get things right.
And if they click early on then who knows just how far the Claret and Blue could go in this competition and indeed during the forthcoming season. |
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