Aston Villa 2013-14 Preview

Best odds to finish top 10: 9/4 (BetVictor)
Last season: 15th

Reasons for hope:

The most important piece of business done this summer had to be persuading Christian Benteke to put pen to paper on a new contract. Further to that, Villa played like a top-eight side from February onwards last season.

Possible bet: PL Top Goalscorer - Christian Benteke 18/1 (PaddyPower). Nobody in the top flight scored more league goals from New Year onwards.

Reasons to worry:

Only two relegated teams conceded more goals than Villa (69) in the Premier League in 2012-13. If Benteke’s goals dry up, or he gets a significant injury, alarm bells would start ringing pretty loudly.

Possible bet: Villa to be relegated - 8/1 (Coral)

Verdict:

All the signs are that things are finally improving under Paul Lambert. A finish of lower middle table would be progressive and is attainable.