There’s no doubt about it - Villa enjoyed a fantastic second season under manager Martin O’Neill. Attendances soared to a 58-year high and the team were good value for a top six finish which would normally have been enough for automatic UEFA Cup qualification. This time around, unfortunately, only one qualifying spot was available via Premier League positions so the club had to settle for a place in the Intertoto Cup as a potential “back door” route into Europe.
All the same, it was a campaign to remember for the manager’s re-shaped team, who scored 71 league goals – the highest figure since the title-winning season of 1980-81.
Villa were involved in some great games and we witnessed the emergence of some great talent. Gareth Barry capitalised on his previous season’s success with another consistent campaign, although most of the headlines went to Ashley Young, whose breathtaking performances earned him international recognition. Martin Laursen, meanwhile, finally managed to stay injury-free and was not only an ever-present in league matches but also scored six goals.
The club also said an emotional farewell to Olof Mellberg. After seven years’ loyal service, the Swedish international and former club captain said his goodbyes and headed off to Italy with supporters’ cheers ringing in his ears.
But perhaps the greatest occasion was the Second City derby. Having already beaten the old enemy 2-1 at St. Andrew’s, Villa put on a super show for the home fans and demolished Birmingham City 5-1 to record an unforgettable victory.
Every goal and every game of this incredible season is featured in this comprehensive review of 2007-08, as well as 30 minutes extended highlights of that wonderful victory over Villa’s fiercest rivals. You can savour those marvellous moments over and over again!
