Carlton Palmer believes that it may be possible for Aston Villa to achieve European football this season. After narrowly avoiding relegation last season, the Villains have been a surprise package in the Premier League so far this season.
They are currently just two points behind fifth-placed West Ham. Meanwhile, Jack Grealish has now established himself as a world-class player for Villa, and Ollie Watkins has also been a revelation this season.
The 24-year-old has scored six Premier League goals since moving to Villa Park from Brentford, which includes a hat-trick against Liverpool. Villa now appear to be a well-organised unit, also boosted by experienced midfielder Ross Barkley who joined on loan from Chelsea.
If they can continue at this rate, a finish in the top half of the table will definitely be attainable.
“I think Villa could push for a top-six, top-seven finish this season. I think they really could. I think they’re hard-working and they’re very well-organised now,” Palmer told Football FanCast.
Villa only avoided relegation on the final day of last season. Their draw against West Ham meant that they narrowly finished above Bournemouth. The reception to manager Dean Smith was largely mixed last season but has been given a second chance by the Villa faithful.
