Frågor och svar från två rekordhållare

How did you feel when Hannah asked you to be a guest at our dinner?

(SM) Felt nice to be invited I love villa fans it’s my club I’ve lived in Birmingham all my life so love when other people love the club like me.

(AB) This was my second time and it's just as fun to meet all of you every time.

How long have you worked for Villa?  Do you often visit Villa Park? 

(AB) In various capacities I have worked at the club for many years.  During the 90’s I was commentating for the club’s own station which was broadcast through the internet worldwide. I work at everyhome game.

However, when my youngest Matty started playing professionally I decided to stop and watch his games.  He had a fantastic lower league career, and I was simply a proud dad.

(SM) I’m at most home games and I’m a Coach at Aston Villa u16s so work at bodymoor I love the job.

Thank you for a fun dinner with your talk. Have you always had the gift of speech? 

(AB) Thank you for the compliments regarding the hosting/speaking … I have been doing this consistently now for about 4 years … I feel I have developed a certain style that seems to work for various events, hopefully I can continue for a long time.

Many supporter clubs travel to Villa Park from various countries. Do you think we should get a discount on match tickets?

(AB)  The Lions Clubs throughout the UK and the world are invaluable to Aston Villa who are trying to accommodate the desire for tickets.  I had a conversation with the bosses who are going to look at the pricing structures to get all the Sweden Lions into the ground next time you visit.  However, I totally understand that the costing of such visits are not cheap, but I feel it is worth you asking the question for the best deal possible?  The club are going to start the improvements to increase the capacity soon as far as I know.

Andy, how did you get the name Uncle Bench? 

My Uncle Bench title did come from a nephew, because I spent so much time as a sub … I think it’s a funny nickname.

Will you come and guest us next year if you get the question?
(AB) I will always try to help and attend the evenings for you, but I cannot promise.  As you can imagine I get lots of work and never know my full schedule all of the time.

(SM) If I'm home and free, then why not.

Which pub, restaurant, and nightclub is best in Birmingham?

(SM) I’m to old for nights clubs  but I love going for food Fumo is my favourite.

How were you recruited to Villa? 

(AB) I was signed by Aston Villa from Coventry City in the summer of 1981, Aston Villa had just won the league.  I made the move to try and become better.  Unfortunately, I did not establish myself, but fortunately I was a part of the side that won the European Cup, so it was a good move.

When I joined Sheffield Wednesday in 1984 it was to play to the standard, I was capable of.  It turned out to be a very good career decision, in 1985 I re-joined Aston Villa on the same day as Steve Hunt.  Together we helped the team avoid relegation.

Unfortunately, in the third game of the following season 1985/1986 I snapped my knee, effectively that was my career finished.  I will be forever grateful having played professional for 8 years, with some great memories.

When do you think the expansion of the North stand will start? What will the new The Warehouse mean for the club.  Will the three major pubs Aston Inn, Aston Tavern, and Witton Arms survive.  Is it worth that much when there aren't that many matches played at Villa Park every mounth?

(AB)  I hosted an event at the Aston Inn on Sunday, and I was impressed with the set up.  Hopefully, the pubs have enough business throughout the year, and match days should be the bonus for business.  I am sure they can survive.

Stefan, who is the best you have played with?

It’s many player, i can’t collect just one. But Olof is on the list.

Thank you for coming, it was really appreciated. Was it nervous to meet us? 

 (SM)) Thanks for the welcome you gave me was special connecting with so many Villa fans 

(AB)  Yes, I still get a little nervous when hosting but the Sweden group are excellent people so it’s a pleasure to help and entertain.

Stefan, would you make the same choice today as you did when you played, or would you have stayed and fought for your place?

(SM) Biggest mistake I made was leaving this great club I was young immature should stayed and fought for place big mistake 

What is needed in the squad for next year?
(SM) I think you always have to add more quality a new young center forward to learn of olie would be good .

(AB)  As for the team next season, we need to continue the path with the manager who is steadily improving every aspect on the football side.  I am sure he will have targets and in Unai Emery we trust.