Wycombe brings mixed emotions for Villa supporters. I like to think back to a time when Villa conspired to concede three goals against our hosts, before managing to score eight (2005 Carling Cup). More painful and etched into the memory of most fans will be the embarrassing episode in January 2016’s FA Cup face-off. Not only did Villa barely scrape a replay in that particular third-round tie (1-1), it was also the infamous scene of the Micah Richards stand-off with the away support. How times have changed.

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Unai Emery and Pau Torres are the antithesis of Remi Garde and Micah Richards. Villa travel in outstanding form to Adams Park, and whilst we might expect some rotation, conscious of the fact that this must be considered a winnable competition. This statement could be interpreted arrogantly, but this is a trophy that we should be trying to win. More controversial perhaps" It’s a competition that we should also be prioritising.
Villas triumphed in 1994 against Manchester United and then again in 1996 against Leeds United in this competition. The League Cup, like the FA Cup has since been devalued in some quarters, but the honours lists of all the greats proudly reference and count their victories alongside others. Take a glance at the new North Stand trophy facade the next time you wander past…

Whilst Emery’s eye is without doubt upon the Premier League and being competitive in The Champions League...