How Will History View MON?

In 10, 20 or 50 years time, just how will history view Mr. Martin O'Neill?

Well, I would think quite favourably. For example, it's already 20 years since the first (and main) departure of Graham Taylor as Villa's manager, and his three seasons in charge can easily be looked back on as successful ones, particularly as he got Villa back into the top flight at the first attempt despite the infrastructure at Villa Park also having to be re-built, and also having got Villa into the runner-up position of the top-flight in his last season, Villa's best finish since 9 years before. And the signing of Platt, McGrath and Yorke ... plus bringing back Gordon Cowans.

For those who remember the details of those times, we recall the issues that were not so good - like the signing of a lanky Ian Ormondroyd and winger Nigel Callaghan. But, overall, we were well pleased with GT's period at Villa Park, and, despite MON's poor signings - like Harewood - overall it could be said he did pretty well. If the Villa are able to convert the 12m pound signing Milner into a 100% profit then that has to be successful business done. And that's just one example of a good purchase.

But, for me, there are still issues that gripe. Was it really necessary to sell our better home-products like Cahill, and why were some players put into playing positions they were not designed for? And why did he not rotate the squad more purposefully last season, especially as they looked fagged out as a result of their drive in the domestic cups. And there were a few other niggles.

Most of those gripes will be forgotten about in 20 years time. MON will doubtless be remembered as at least as important a manager as GT, I'd say.