Bent hopes to repay Aston Villa fans with home improvement

Jul 30, 2012 10:50:00 PM

The Villans recorded just four league wins at Villa Park last term and their newly appointed skipper has called for that record to be banished next season

Aston Villa captain Darren Bent hopes to repay supporters for their backing last season with improved home form next term.

The Villans recorded just four league wins at home during the 2011-12 campaign, as they narrowly avoided relegation under Alex McLeish.

And Bent, who has been handed the Villa captaincy due to the absence of Stiliyan Petrov through illness, is hoping to make up for that disappointing record.

He told the Birmingham Mail: “Even during our tough season last time out, the Holte End was still singing, chanting and getting right behind us.

“They were supporting us 100 per cent. It’s a great place to play football at Villa Park.

“But last season our home form let us down and we need to improve on that this season. We want fans to wake up and think ‘yes it’s matchday, we’re off to Villa Park.’”

A recent fan campaign has encouraged fans in the famous Holte End to take items such as scarves, inflatables and balloons to create an uplifting atmosphere - a concept which is fully backed by Bent.

Bent added: "I know there’s a new campaign around where fans are being encouraged to really unite in the Holte End, with scarves and balloon and things like that.

“I am all for it! It’s all good fun, it creates an added atmosphere in the stadium and the lads would love it.

“I know last season was difficult for the fans. At times we weren’t playing the best but I am sure this season will be better.”

Sign up with William Hill for a free bet up to £25
Sign up with bet365 for a free bet up to £200
Sign up to Paddy Power for £250 in free bets
Sign up today with Coral and get a £50 FREE bet - no strings attached!
Sign up today with BetVictor and get a £25 FREE BET!