Aston Villa are on a torrid run of form and failed to build on their Boxing Day win in the worst manner possible, losing heavily to relegation rivals Watford.Injuries to Tyrone Mings and John McGinn have undoubtedly hindered the team but Dean Smith has been stubborn in his approach and often made repeated mistakes this term.Many fans feel the biggest problem with his tactics is the lack of game time he has given to Jonathan Kodjia, who hasn’t started a league game this season despite the lack of form of Wesley, who hasn’t scored in his previous 12 league games.
Furthermore, Kodjia scored twice against Liverpool in the League Cup and could offer the Villans more pace and movement up-front, which is why several fans want to see him given a chance ahead of Wesley.
Despite Watford going down to ten men the £3.6m-rated man wasn’t brought until the game was already lost at 3-0, and that means questions should be raised over Smith’s decision-making.
Villa only scoring 25 goals in 20 league games is little surprise given their attacking options, but it is unlikely to change until their manager shows more ambition.
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He has been keen to utilise Jack Grealish as part of a front three in order to solidify the midfield, and that hints at a lack of willingness to attack.
Fans have called for two strikers to be played up-front, meaning Kodjia would partner Wesley, and given their varied attributes it is possible the pair could form an effective partnership, and cause teams problems as a result.
Meanwhile, Villa have registered interest in a young player who may be the first to arrive in what could be another busy transfer window.
