Aston Villa have enjoyed an outstanding start to the 2023/24 campaign, thrusting themselves well and truly into the Premier League top-four race and starting strongly in the UEFA Europa Conference League.
An early duck from the Carabao Cup was disappointing as Everton came to town, earning a rare away win at Villa Park. Other than that and the 5-1 opening-day defeat to Newcastle United, however, there have not been many down moments.
Unai Emery's guidance of the squad has been exceptional and there have been countless strong performers on a consistent basis, a couple of which have stood out above the rest. A few have fallen below par, though, and need to step up.
With that in mind, here are our honest player ratings for the season so far, with a brief analysis of all 29 individuals to feature since the first fixture on August 12.
Unai Emery's guidance of the squad has been exceptional and there have been countless strong performers on a consistent basis, a couple of which have stood out above the rest. A few have fallen below par, though, and need to step up.
29. Ollie Watkins - 9
Really coming into his own, Watkins has been the top player for goal involvements this season as he's netted 11 and assisted five. The England international has two hat-tricks in all competitions and deservedly signed a new, bumper contract recently. | Getty Images