Rachel Daly Aston Villa Womens importance highlighted amid transition admission
Dan Bardell believes Aston Villa Women will have a positive transition season under Robert de Pauw if Rachel Daly is on top form.
The former England international scored against Tottenham at Villa Park on Sunday 29 September to put Villa ahead before the away side scored a late equaliser.
A point against Spurs was the Dutch manager’s first in charge of the Villans after he took over from Carla Ward during the summer.
De Pauw will be keen to secure his first win as soon as possible and Sky Sports and talkSPORT journalist Bardell thinks Daly will be crucial to any success he has this season.
Speaking exclusively to Villa News, Bardell said: “Important not to start the season with back-to-back defeats, but very frustrating to not see the game out.
“It’s crucial they get that first win under the new regime as soon as possible.
“It’s probably going to be a transitional season, Carla Ward leaving and the turnover of players means that it’ll be very difficult to get off to a flying start, these things take time.
“Daly obviously got off the mark for the season, much will depend on her. We saw the difference she made in the 22/23 season, and if she plays to her top level, she will score goals.
“I’d expect the defence to be better this time round as well, so if Daly fires, Villa will win games.“
Rachel Daly on target for Aston Villa Women v Tottenham
After a productive summer, Villa have plenty of options in forward areas which could make them a nightmare for WSL defences to deal with.
That proved to be the case against Tottenham with Adriana Leon and Daly both getting on the scoresheet to say “We are still here”.
This comes after the likes of Gabi Nunes, Chasity Grant and Missy Bo Kearns came in during the most recent window.
It would take a lot for any of the new signings to replace the output and importance of Daly who has been integral since joining from Houston Dash.
There is real potential for de Pauw to get a good tune out of this exciting side but must be given time to allow his side to thrive.
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