| Rejuvenated striker Stan Collymore has
proved everybody wrong with his massive chances in the past few months.
Villa's record signing was blamed by many for Brian Little's resignation after proving to be a massive flop in his first season. He was described as a loner and moody, not liked by many at Villa park. Then came the drama in the Paris bar with Ulrika Johnson and his career was on the line. John Gregory, famous for his 'no mess' approach came in and warned Collymore he had one last chance to prove himself worthy of the number 9 shirt, or he would be sold. Collymore started pre season training two weeks before his team mates to show his determination at making an impression. The start of the season was dogged with injuries, and he finally proved his point in the 3 nil win over Stromsgodset in Europe with a hat trick. Since then he has shined in every game, playing like a new man covering every inch of the pitch. Against Celta Viga he was many peoples man of the match. He has rewarded John Gregories faith in him with brilliant performances matched with lots of effort, and instead of having his place at threat by the arrival of Dion Dublin from Coventry, he is now striving to form a formidable partnership with him. Manager John Gregory said that he told Collymore at the start of the
season "This is your last chance. Prove to me I don't need to
open my cheque book and sign a new striker because you can do it" |