Should Villa Enter The Inter-Toto?

Well, any lingering hopes of qualifying for Europe next season went out the window last night in a fairly tame performance by Aston Villa against Manchester City.

The hope for a late surge in the league hasn't happened and with some very difficult games coming up, it seems highly unlikely - albeit mathematically possible - that we could possibly go on a winning run until the end of the season and grab 6th spot. VERY UNLIKELY!

So, our latest poll thought it would bring up the old and prickly subject of the Inter-Toto Cup. David O'Leary has already said that he wants a more competitive pre-season, so should we perhaps look to the Inter-Toto as a possible way to get into Europe and give us a competitive pre-season?

I remember Paul Merson saying he liked the competition as the team were match fit and started the new season from a running start. I know the flip side of the argument is that as the season progresses, our small squad would tire and we would have stretched our resources too far, but could it really make that much difference?

Our latest poll, suggested by deano.avfc, asks if Villa should enter the Inter-Toto. I'd be in favour, the summer matches are pleasant and even if we didn't win it, we'll have had a good pre-season.

The main worry for Villa fans has to be whether we can hold on to the quality we still have left in the team as the club once again fail to gain European football? Olof Mellberg isn't getting any younger and as a quality player, he will want to experience football at the top level, Villa are simply not delivering that. It also makes it far harder to attract top players to the club in the summer transfer market. Mind you, if Ellis is still in charge, that won't really be a problem, he's managed to leave the club with no money.

Click here to join in the debate on the club forum.