As we all know, the 2015/16 Barclays Premier League campaign was one of complete misery for everyone associated with Aston Villa.
They conceded a remarkable 76 goals over the course of the 38 game season and defensive issues is something that will certainly need to addressed by new boss, Roberto Di Matteo.
Another alarming statistic from the dire 2015/16 campaign is that, after their 1-0 win away to Bournemouth in their first away game of the season, they did not win a single away fixture after that. What makes it even worse is the fact that they only managed to pick up three draws on that winless run - meaning they only picked up six points away from home all season.
So, how is Di Matteo going to turn around that horrific defensive record? Well, he will undoubtedly need to bring in players who not only have enough quality to succeed in the Championship but also want to play for the club.
Many times last season the Villa defence was subject to sloppy mistakes are lapses in concentration. It subsequently lead to criticisms from fans and pundits putting their performances down to a "lack of desire."
To not only improve the defensive record of the club but also ensure they are in with a chance of relative success next season, Villa's new boss, Roberto Di Matteo, will need to bring in dependent defenders who can be relied on for the best part of the season.
If there is one thing certain to change at Villa Park over the summer it is the defence after such a miserable campaign last time out.
With a total revamp of Villa's defence needed, click here to see THREE defenders the Championship new boys could bring in...
Nedum Onuoha
Currently at QPR, Nedum Onuoha is a solid central defender who has tremendous strength and pace.
The quality of the former Man City man is almost certainly something that would improve the Villa rear guard.
Not only does his have tremendous pace and strength, but he also has a desire to work incredibly hard - shown by the fact that he was made club captain of QPR at the beginning of the 2015/16.
He has made over 120 appearances for the R's so his experience and knowledge of the Championship is something that will definitely improve the Villa squad if Di Matteo does look to sign the 29-year-old.
Adrian Mariappa
Mariappa is a free agent this summer and could be a welcome addition to the Villa squad.
His three year deal with Crystal Palace is set to expire at the end of June after previously signing for the club in 2013 from Reading.
The 2015/16 season was one of major disappointment for the 29-year old who had an injury ridden season appearing just 7 times for the Eagles.
However, the former Reading man provides great stability at the heart of a defence with physical presence and stature as well as the ability to head the ball well. In addition, the central defender is aged 29 and has a good few years left in him.
As a result, the Villa fans may welcome the arrival of such a dependable defender who, if he can avoid injury, would be a good singing for a side in need of stability at the back.
Marcin Wasilewski
The Polish man mountain was part of the record-breaking Leicester City side who won the Premier League last season. However, after only appearing seven times for the Foxes, he is now out of contract and looking for regular football.
He could prove to be a worthy addition if Di Matteo is willing to take a punt on him. His physical presence is something could be very helpful in the dying embers of games as they look to hold on to a point or even three.
What is more, the 36-year-old boasts tremendous experience of, not just football at the top flight, but the Championship too. His 60 appearances for the Foxes came mostly in the season of 2013/14 where he established himself as a regular starter and helped gain them promotion.
As a result, Wasilewski could be a worthy addition to the Villa squad as he provides stability and physicality as well as the know how on achieving promotion to the Premier League.