Former Villa midfielder Ian Taylor believes that the club made real strides last season that they need to build on this term.
Huge improvement was the mark for Martin O’Neill’s side in 2007/08. Coming a credible sixth with a comparatively threadbare squad, the results were clear to see.
They scored 71 goals, Villa’s best ever tally in the Premier League, also their best tally since winning the title in 1981.
Their 60 points gained was the most they had notched since the 1996-97 season. All in all, Villa were the third highest goalscorers in the Premier League.
Taylor should know a thing or two about Villa sides, having made 234 appearances for the club between 1994 and 2003, and he sees the current crop as the best for a long time.
He said: “Villa made major progress. It was a really good season and the crowds flocked to Villa Park.
“I think that was down to the brand of football we played. We scored a hatful of goals and were involved in many exciting games too.
“It was great to watch and going forward, we were different class.
“It is important to win games but fans love watching exciting football.
“That was definitely Villa last season.”
Taylor singled out Player of the Season Martin Laursen for praise and also had kind words for a player he was initially not convinced by - Ashley Young.
He said: “Eyebrows were raised - including mine - when Ashley was signed for a lot of money but he more than proved his worth.
“He was superb and managed to get himself into the England squad. He improved all season and his confidence was sky high. He went from strength to strength.”
“We improved at the back too, with Martin really shining. He lasted the whole season and was fit throughout which was a major positive.
“He showed everyone what he could do. He was like a new signing.
“He has had his problems but hopefully those are behind him now and he will be a major player for us in the years to come.”
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