What a stunning response by Aston Villa.
In the first game during the post-Steven Gerrard era, the Villans destroyed Brentford 4-0 in the Midlands this afternoon.
Aaron Danks took charge of Aston Villa as a caretaker but he could’ve just masterminded his way into contention for the permanent role following such a spectacular performance.
The hosts were leading 3-0 at the break following first-half goals from Leon Bailey and a Danny Ings double, before Ollie Watkins added a fourth during the second half.
Interestingly, Danks made a controversial decision to bench captain John McGinn and Stephen Kelly, speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live, claims it was a ‘massive statement’ by the interim boss – but one that ultimately paid off extremely handsomely.
He said to BBC Radio 5 Live [23/10, 14:02]: “Dropping your captain is huge when you only had one opportunity to show what you’re like as a manager at this level, [Aaron Danks] has made a massive statement dropping McGinn. His form has waned but it’s a huge call.”
There were whispers that Danks – who was part of Dean Smith’s coaching staff – had planned this all along.
Long before kickoff and the teams were released, The Telegraph reported that the Scotland international would miss out on the first XI.
McGinn has been one of several Aston Villa players who have struggled this season and you have to give Danks credit for benching such an important player.
Fortune favours the brave and a lot more neutral fans – and perhaps Villa supporters – will be asking who Aaron Danks is now.
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