OK, it’s not a new signing, but with the current sombre atmosphere, I thought it worth bringing some good news. Oh, and this was something I got a little sniff of back in June. I know, hold the front page, a major scoop for AVC and high fives all round!!

The details were correct, it is a new 3 year contract and Lichaj is looking forward to trying to force his way into the first team at Villa Park and is also hoping to get called up for the US national side. I’m not normally one to offer tips or predictions, but injury or qualification nightmares aside, he’s got a great chance of being in Brazil for the World Cup in 2014.

No Goal For You

On the subject of the US national team, Brad Guzan came on for the second half against Brazil in the New Meadowlands last night with the Americans 2-0 and taking a battering from one of the best Brazilian performances seen for some time. It’s fair to say that our keeper impressed, making a number of fine saves to keep the score at 2-0, although the woodwork also came to his rescue on a few occasions.

Nevertheless, Brazil were in irresistible form and Brad gave a fantastic account of himself, arguably the best player for the home side on the night. Well done Brad.

Sticking with the international theme, Marc Albrighton made his England Under-21 debut last night, coming on for the last 20 minutes or so in the 2-0 win over Uzbekistan. I was pretty distracted at the time, so I can’t claim to have seen how he did, but he didn’t have very long to make much of an impression. I’m sure he was brilliant!

Shiny New Things

Continuing the brighter theme, despite my cynicism yesterday, the new site launched today and looks very good. A little buggy here and there, but a big improvement all the same.

There you will find an interview with caretaker and reserve team manager, Kevin MacDonald who is clearly honoured and excited ahead of the curtain opener at Villa Park this Saturday. I hope he gets the support he deserves from the home fans. I’m certain he will.

Good luck Kevin!

And finally, there seemed good reason last night to hope that both Milner and Stephen Ireland will complete medicals tomorrow and be available for their respective new clubs on Saturday. No guarantees, obviously, but the deal seems very much alive despite MON’s departure.

That said, an Ireland for Milner swap doesn’t do the wage bill any real favours, so expect players to still be leaving, unless perhaps they want to put the estimated £16m cash City will give us towards covering the wages for a bit…. that would be, what, about 2 months?