Sorenson sees cause for optimism

The 30-year-old was in the Denmark side that beat Australia 3-1 in London last night but it is Villa's incipient renaissance that he is focussing on, and he believes the new men at the top are starting to produce dividends. "The change was a really massive boost for everyone," the Denmark keeper told the Telegraph. "Given time, and with maybe more new players, I'm sure we will get a very good team and that we will be strong contenders for the top half of the table. It is definitely looking up. We want to be a part of where this club is going – so it is up to us to perform."

John Carew and Ashley Young already are, having quickly settled following their January arrivals and Sorenson has seen encouraging signs. "The two new boys have both managed a goal in their first two games and that's a great start for them and we really look like a threat now. It provides a big confidence boost for the team, knowing we can score."

Top half AND able to score. Watch out Barca.