Five reasons Aston Villa were right to stick with Paul Lambert

Aston Villa have not been having a solid season, that’s clear, but the signs are positive if they can get through this current mess and remain a Premier League team for the next campaign.

Coaching Methods

However, he’s dug in at Villa and although many have questioned his coaching methods, there have been some clear signs that it’s worked and is still working.

He has transformed the careers of several players in his current team for which he deserves big credit. Fabian Delph, Andreas Weimann and Christian Benteke have all increased their profiles under his managerial reign.

Recent Form

Aston Villa’s recent form has been decent although not spectacular. They have picked up seven points from the last 15 available which is competitive and will give them a good chance of staying up by the end of the season.

If they can simply keep adding draws and wins to that ratio then they should be okay, they’re just 13 points away from the magical 40 point mark.

Internal Stability

The infrastructure of the club has improved under Lambert. Debts have been reduced because of the fact he’s been willing to use younger players and not risk the finances by spending tens of millions on players, which is cash the side doesn’t have at the moment.

Signings

His signings have been criticised but they have been solid. Benteke coming in at the start of the season has a slightly different context but many criticised the arrival of Yacouba Sylla.

However, Sylla seems to have adapted to English football and the Premier League well and will be vital during the current suspension of Delph, as the enforcer in the midfield.

Personality

Villa would not have been able to find a manager with the same level of passion and belief in his methods than Lambert. This can be a little frustrating at times when certain tactics aren’t working, but no one can question the passion and the desire he has for the football club.

Villa fans, are you happy he stayed?

image: © ell-r-brown