Villa reload after frustrating ninth-place finish

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Ninth place and nowhere to hide

Aston Villa wrapped up last season in ninth spot in the Barclays Women's Super League, shipping goals like a leaky submarine with a goal difference of -20. The attack showed promise, but the defence seemed to think clean sheets were optional.

Hanson-shaped hole

Manager Natalia Arroyo has been busy reshaping the squad over summer. The biggest headache? Replacing Kirsty Hanson, who bagged 12 league goals last term before heading for the exit.

Fresh faces arrive

Villa have moved quickly. Kamilla Melgård (Madrid CFF) and Amalie Vangsgaard (Juventus) arrive to bolster the frontline. Justine Kielland and goalkeeper Emily Ramsey add much-needed steel at the back, as WSL Football reports.

Staying power

Anna Patten remains the defensive anchor. Rachel Daly continues to be a genuine goal threat. Youngsters Georgia Mullett and Maya Hijikata add depth and excitement.

Set pieces reshuffled

Lynn Wilms, Jenna Nighswonger, and Missy Bo Kearns shared dead-ball duties last season. With Hanson gone, Daly is tipped to take penalties. Wilms looks set to keep direct free kicks.

Fantasy value

Daly at £6.5m looks a bargain for Fantasy managers. Wilms comes in at £6.0m, while midfielders Miri Taylor and Lucia Kendall offer budget options at £5.0m.