Aston Villa: Dan Bardell reacts to what Jamie Carragher said about Villa Park ‘setback’
Aston Villa would do more for English football by finishing in the top four despite what Jamie Carragher said following their FA Cup defeat to Chelsea, according to Dan Bardell.
Writing on The Telegraph website on 9 February, the pundit said Villa’s 3-1 defeat to the Blues on 7 February was a “setback for English football” as it means the same clubs are likely to win the cup competitions again this season.
He added that the major trophies are usually won by the wealthiest clubs, but he insisted that the Villans must “seize their moment” as more challengers are needed in the domestic competitions.
Bardell believes it’s more important that Unai Emery’s side finish in the Champions League spots than win the FA Cup as that would show it can be achieved despite the money being spent by other Premier League clubs.
Speaking exclusively to Villa News, Bardell said: “I can see his viewpoint, but I think it’s more looking at it from a league point of view.
“Chelsea are bang average in the league, sat in the middle of the table, while Villa are competing for the top four at the moment.
“I would say it’s better for English football if Villa finish in the top four and show that it can be done despite some of the money these teams have spent rather than who wins the FA Cup.
“I think Chelsea have always been a decent cup side, they’ve won a lot of trophies over the past 10 to 20 years.
“But on what Jamie Carragher said, it’s more important that Villa finish in the top four than win the FA Cup in terms of English football.”
Aston Villa have battle on their hands to earn Champions League football
There are several things that have gone against Villa in recent weeks after the results haven’t gone in their favour and they are managing an injury crisis.
It’s going to be tricky for them to make the top four, but it would send out a positive message to all the other Premier League clubs that they can challenge for a Champions League place if they achieve that this season.
There is still a long way to go before anything is finalised, but Emery will be looking to ensure his side remains competitive right up until the last ball is kicked.
In other Aston Villa news, a journalist has shared the likelihood of Emery joining Liverpool.
For more Aston Villa news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.