Do you think it was a good move by Southampton to swap Ings for Armstrong? They are now looking at relegation fight, Ings guaranteed goals, Armstrong unproven at this level.

The difference between our (supposed) interest and that of Southampton was that we could do with another striker whereas they had to get another striker. In retrospect I also question with our tactics whether it would have worked out with us. We have played all preseason with a big man on his own up top and could a wee little Alan of only 5' 8" carry that mantle?

Ings was class last season so AA has big shoes to fill (which could be hard with his tiny feet).

There are examples of smaller strikers doing quite well in this division.

But you make a good point and wee Alan knew it. He would be fighting Benteke for a place and largely playing off the bench. At Saints he is guaranteed a start. They have no choice.

This is precisely the point I made about a week ago but you have made it with eloquence and clarity.

Soton had little option Ings wanted to leave so it was either now or for nothing next year as I think he was out of contract. However I do think he will be missed and Soton and to a similar extent Villa will miss their star men and both may be near bottom of table this year.

Armstrong I think may be EPL quality but may not initially show this and take a year to settle by which time Soton may already be relegated. Ings has a poor injury record and if these problems re-occur may miss a lot of season

Scores on his debut. I think we will live to regret letting him slip through our fingers.