The Premier League title race has a formidable new challenger. Former top-flight strikers Chris Sutton and Sue Smith have warned that Aston Villa can no longer be ignored after Unai Emery’s side secured their tenth consecutive victory.
Despite a gritty performance that saw them fall short of their usual fluidity, Villa managed a 2-1 win over Manchester United on Sunday.
The result keeps them firmly rooted in the top three, sitting just one point behind Manchester City and three points adrift of league leaders Arsenal.
Pundits: “Why Not Dream?”Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, the two former England internationals expressed their admiration for Villa’s resilience: Chris Sutton challenged the narrative that Villa are outsiders, asking, “Why not Aston Villa for the title? If you’re a fan, why not dream?”Sue Smith highlighted the team’s consistency, noting that they continue to silence doubters by passing every “litmus test” put in front of them. She described their current form as “absolutely outstanding.
“A Three-Way Battle for ChristmasWhile Arsenal secured the top spot for Christmas Day following a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Everton, the gap at the summit remains razor-thin.
Mikel Arteta’s Gunners hold a two-point lead over Manchester City, with Aston Villa breathing down their necks in third.
With ten wins in a row and a knack for winning even when not at their best, Unai Emery has transformed Villa into a side that appears ready to fight for the trophy until the final day.