While Villa haven’t quite gotten to the ‘must-win’ stage of the season, recent setbacks are starting to push us there. Time to panic? No. But the race for the Champions League places has gotten a bit tense.

Now, this was probably always going to be the case. The poor start left points hanging, and while Villa’s remarkable form since has put the side in third, downturns are virtually inevitable for a variety of reasons. And it doesn’t help that Villa continue to be financially hamstrung while the likes of United and Chelsea aren’t. Also doesn’t help that those two contrived to put more competent people in charge of their deeper and more expensively assembled squads.

Perhaps not coincidentally, the current downturn follows another ‘disappointing’ window along with rumors linking Emery to Real Madrid. And to be honest it’s put me in a funk, because the two could well be intertwined. As we’ve feared and wondered, will the financial restraints ultimately prove too frustrating for Emery? Are the players once again feeling let down?

Obviously I’ve got no firm answers, but one doesn’t have to try very hard to imagine gathering clouds on the horizon. And one doesn’t have to stretch very far to worry about the mentality of the team should they drop more points and get reeled in further by the chasing pack.

So, yeah, I’ve tried to largely ignore what’s going on as Villa have finally been found mortal at home. Tonight, though, is a chance to turn the narrative back to the positive.

In terms of what’s happening on the pitch, it’s obviously hurt to have Youri, Bouba, and SJM unavailable. Villa managed to cope pretty well without Youri earlier in the season, but this time it’s seeming to hurt more, and it’s only compounded by losing your two most dogged midfielders. That’s bite and creativity gone, and it has to be weighing on the players as much as Emery.

It just feels like Villa can’t really catch a break in a competition that’s already rigged against them. Injuries, officials, restrictions and cock-ups…Quite a stew.

But. You have to carry on and the biggest trap is for anyone concerned to start feeling sorry for themselves. Grind it out, find ways to win, and hope that other results and luck break your way just enough.

So, not the most cheerful write-up from me, but a win tonight would go some way to restoring a little optimism. I’d like to think we’re due and that Madrid will land their man in Klopp.

Over to you.