BR: With Martin O'Neill leaving Aston Villa just before the beginning of the new season, it was assumed by all that a new man would be put in place before the end of the transfer window. Caretaker manager Kevin MacDonald was given the run of the team for the opening matches of the season and, though he started well with a win over West Ham United, subsequently suffered a heavy 6-0 defeat against Newcastle United and was knocked out of the Europa League by Rapid Vienna.
