Aston Villa’s alarming fall continued on Saturday as they were thumped 3-0 by a Wigan side that had not picked up a win since November.
Villa’s defensive fragilities were on show again as Dean Smith’s side conceded their 41st, 42nd and 43rd goals of the season after just 27 league matches.
During the previous campaign [Google], they shipped only 42 goals as they went on to lose the playoff final to Fulham.
(Photo by Lee Parker/Action Plus via Getty Images)
James Chester, who partnered John Terry at centre-back during that season, was named the fans player of the season [AVFC official website] for his performances.
But since then, the 29-year-old has looked the shadow of the player that many believe outperformed Terry last term.
He has had a number of centre-back partners this season from Mile Jedinak to Axel Tuanzebe.
(Photo by James Williamson – AMA/Getty Images)
But compared with all those players, whether it be through injury or form, Chester has remained in the starting XI.
But is it time Smith dropped him ahead of the club’s home tie against Hull City on Saturday?
Villa could select Hause to partner Elphick at the back, which would add more balance to the side.
Chester could do with a break from the side as Smith aims to add stability to his problematic team.