In his exclusive column for CaughtOffside, former Liverpool attacker Stan Collymore discusses some of football’s biggest talking points, including the possibility of Aston Villa signing a new goalkeeper, Darren Eales’ recent comments on Newcastle’s transfer strategy and where next for Anthony Martial, plus much more.
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Time for matchday-going fans to take a stand…
I think the Premier League and FA’s decisions to make some kick-off times what they are is an absolute disgrace.
There is absolutely no regard for the match-day going fan anymore, and yes, we all know that the TV broadcasting money is what pays the bills, but do not underestimate the power and influence of the fans that actually turn up to the stadiums.
Unfortunately, with kick-off times like Fulham’s FA Cup Fourth Round tie against Newcastle United being set for 7 p.m., it makes it almost impossible for away fans, who have to travel nearly 300 miles south, to make the round trip.
It’s not that the journey is long and difficult, that bit can’t be helped when the draws are random, but it’s the fact there is no consideration for the fans. It’s just another kick in the teeth to the people who this sport is supposed to be for.
Aston Villa on the lookout for a new goalkeeper?
Aston Villa, according to a recent report from Birmingham Live, are considering signing a new goalkeeper. Emi Martinez is obviously the number one at Villa Park and will continue to be but there is hope Unai Emery will be able to bring in a backup keeper to help provide cover, perhaps to then become the side’s next number one once Martinez does move on.
I think this would be a sensible position to try and reinforce but there are no obvious names that jump out of me when it comes to possible targets.
Aaron Ramsdale is facing an uncertain future at Arsenal following David Raya’s arrival from Brentford last summer, but I am not sure the Englishman would want to join Villa knowing he isn’t guaranteed to be the number one — that’s the position he’s in under Mikel Arteta and it seems quite obvious that he won’t be sticking around beyond this season, so to move to a club and be in the same predicament would be pointless.
In light of that, Villa should probably be targeting backup goalkeepers — ones that are playing in cups and competitions like the Europa League and Europa Conference League. The profile of player…
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