Before the match last week at Fenerbahce, there were dooms and glooms that the recent injuries were going to dampen our prospects for the season.

The 1-0 win in Turkey thanks to Jadon Sancho’s goal followed up by 2-0 win at Newcastle United, the first win there in 21 years and those talks seemed a bit premature.

Indeed the last win guarantees up a top 8 finish in the Europa League and safe passage to the last 16 round, starting in March. Now we face RB Salzburg in our final league stage game at Villa Park, knowing a win will secure a top 2 finish (just behind Lyon on goal difference).

Indeed a top 2 finish, will see the 2nd leg being played at home, all the way to the Final in Istanbul on 20th May. Our visitors from Austria, start the game in 28th place on 6 points and needing a win to keep their slim playoff hopes alive. A tough task considering they have lost all three games away as we also have 100% winning record at Villa Park.

Amadou Onana is back which is great news with Youri Tielemans picking up an injury on Sunday. he along with Captain John McGinn won’t be returning to the Spring.

The further good feel factor is definitely felt with the return of two old favourites. Tammy Abraham, who was part promotion winning team in 2018/19 season retiring on a permanent deal of £18.2m whilst Douglas Luis who enjoyed a 5 year stint at Villa Park, returning on loan for the rest of the season from Juventus. Evann Guessand is expecting to leave on loan to Crystal Palace.

After tonight, we return to domestic action starting with match against Brentford at Villa Park on Sunday, as we are now just 4 points behind leaders Arsenal.

We will also be in thew FA Cup 4th round with Valentine Day meeting against Newcastle United at Villa Park.

So we are battling on three fronts this season and will be hoping to keep the good times rolling when we return to Europa League in March.