Benteke Signs Extension and Remains with Villa

So far it has been a very active summer for Villa with the signing of new players (Okore, Aleksander, Helenius, Bacuna, Luna) and new contracts for returning ones (Guzan, Weimann, Westwood, Clark, Lowton).  The biggest news has been the transfer request that was submitted by Benteke a couple of weeks ago which has angered many supporters.

But today, it has been reported that Benetke has signed a contract extension to stay with Villa.  This must have been asa result of a heart-to-heart with the Gaffer.  Honestly, I lost a lot of admiration for the young striker when he turned in his request for transfer.  I thought he was receiving bad advice from agents and that his head was getting too large.   This change of heart is good to hear and that he has committed himself to Villa for the time being.  Let's hope it is genuine.  He is a great player and could be on his way to becoming a Villa legend if he keeps his head straight and his feet on the ground.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2370496/Christian-Benteke-signs-new-year-Aston-Villa-contract.html

Villa win 1-3 at the Brittania

What a game today vs Stoke - a critical one for both teams.  Villa's three goals came from Gabby, Lowton, and the Beast, but special focus on Matthew Lowton's goal in the 88' break the 1-1 tie.  His volley from distance has to be the goal of the season.  The amazing thing was that he scored a similar goal, on the volley (but a little closer to goal) using his left foot vs Swansea.  Today's goal was like a mirror image where he used his right foot.  Words cannot describe this goal sufficiently.  Look at it yourself.

Today's goal vs Stoke City

Villa 1-3 Win at Anfield

OMG! That was the best Villa performance in the League this year.  A complete team effort.  The defense remained solid despite being pummeled with shot after shot from Liverpool.  Brad Guzan made some great saves.  Christian Beneteke...what can you say?  HE IS MASSIVE!  The entire midfield played amazingly.

listen to ‘Villa goals in Liverpool win’ on Audioboo

First Benteke goal from range

Goal #2 Andreas Weimann

 (above) Weimann on the break

 (above) Weimann finds Benteke on the wing

 (above) Benteke back heels it ... return to Weimann

(above) Weimann SCORES

Goal #3 Benteke

(above) Benteke battles thru 2 Liverpool players to score an unassisted goal

Villa 2-nil over Swansea

What a game!  Holman continues to be a workhorse that never stops running.  Lowton's goal was amazing!  Big Brad was again brilliant in net. And what about Benteke??   He looked unstoppable and he definitely will help open up some things for Benty.  Things are really looking up!  UTV!