Big guns set for timely return

Chapman’s Corner - Retired former Athletic star Les Chapman writes about all things football
IT looked clear to me that Aston Villa’s priority was simply not to lose in the game against Manchester City.

They definitely set their stall out to that effect anyway. I did notice that their ’keeper Brad Guzan looked as though he was wasting time at a goal-kick as early as the 51st minute.

I know it was the Premier League’s bottom versus the top side, but form doesn’t always work out.

Villa players were undoubtedly out to impress their new manager Remi Garde, too.

There was a really positive atmosphere inside Villa Park because of that, and that will have helped the home players.

It was just one of those days for City again.

They created enough chances to have won comfortably, but the ball just wouldn’t go in, particularly late in the game.

At least City stayed on top of the table going into the international break.

That will have maintained confidence levels, and it’s looking like the two week gap will also help with the injury situation.

I think Sergio Aguero may be available again for the next match now, and they will certainly need him given that Wilfried Bony limped off at Villa.

David Silva should also be back to face Liverpool on Saturday week so that’s another big boost heading into a crucial part of the season.

We had a lovely weekend with my mum, celebrating her 100th birthday, which was on Friday.

We went for a lovely meal to the Swan in Dobcross on Sunday, and it was great for all the family to get together.

Some of my cousins and nephews I hadn’t seen for years were there, so it was a nice day.

She’s amazing my mum.

She doesn’t get out so much these days, but she’s as fit as a fiddle and has hardly ever been to the doctors in all her years.

She’s not one for going to the doctor’s surgery just because she might have a bad cold.

In fact, she’s a big believer that people sometimes bring illness on themselves.

She looks after herself well and always has done.