If the players back Smith and the problem is Shakespeare, for example, then sack Shakespeare. Hopefully they will identify whatever is at the root of our malaise.
Ings has disrupted Watkins and fitting both in the starting 11 has disrupted everything else. If we signed a DM instead of Ings, we'd be in a better position.
Also, injuries, covid and international duty hasn't helped team cohesion either.
I really like Dean and still back him. But if we actually lose six straight games, I'd reluctantly support dropping the axe. Not many managers survive 6 straight losses. And we aren't losing these through bad luck and despite good play. We look awful, completely rudderless. Player dissent is troubling. The manager needs to tighten up the ship when it springs a leak. But the SS Villa is leaking more every week. Two more losses against beatable teams will see us staring into an abyss.
Good post. Owners should have pushed harder for a fourth big name, a DMF. Or if unwilling to spend beyond the Grealish fee, spent the Ings money on a DMF. Or Alvarez + DMF.
Still, its incumbent upon Smith to motivate whoever is playing in the shirt, and they look unmotivated lately.
I think Dean has banked a lot of good will with the owners. I think they'll retain him for now, and even if we lose next game.
But if they haven't prepared a new manager list already, they will be now.
Hard not to feel pessimistic now. We are almost in the drop zone and the wheels seem like they are popping off. Something is wrong behind the scenes and perhaps has been for some time. I really want Smith to stay and turn this around but it's looking like a big ask. The players look like they've quit on him.
Full blown crisis at the Villa.
I still back Smith but would understand if he's given the sack.
The Mings-Sanson rumor is worrying. There's a discipline breakdown evident on the pitch and perhaps off it.
West Ham were fortunate but still the better side. We looked like a Championship side today.
If we lose next game, Smith will lose his job.
A rot appears to be setting in and I'm not sure he knows how to stop it.