Back in 1888 two teams played each other in the first ever football league season. One team was vastly more successful but given the size of Burnley they did not do to bad as well.

So for the first time in my supporting history Burnley play a league game at Villa Park with an abysmal away record. On Sunday this resumption of an ancient rivalry resumes and it is obviously a game we must win to ensure that the race for fourth stays a 4 horse race. In fact with Liverpool and Man City playing after our game it is clear a win will put us right up amongst the positions for 4th.

Therefore I expect nothing less than a full strength team for this game. If everyone is fit the only real debate is exactly who will play at RB, Luke Young or Carlos Cuellar. I like Cuellar, no emphaise that further I really rate him and he has played really well, However at this stage we need a proper right back, we have to win the game and Luke simply HAS to play.

The only other area is who would play alongside Gabby. With Heskey breaking down every game, Carew playing like he has already left then is it time for Nathan Delfouneso ? MON said today

Delph and for that matter, Nathan Delfouneso, have got wonderful ability. I expect those two boys to be really, big big players for us next season.

I totally agree and the only reason I would not play Delph tomorrow is that he is needed for Wednesday. However Delfouneso can start against Burnley’s slow centre backs and I believe he would be excellent against them and provide a real threat and more importantly goals.

whatever team is picked we must win and hopefully get a few goals, the next month is vital for our league ambitions and anything less against a team with only one point away from Turf Moor is just unacceptable.