Aston Villa had been flying in recent weeks but their seven-match winning run was ended by in-form Fulham on Saturday and they were only able to draw at home to play-off chasing Preston North End last night. 

Injuries to Jack Grealish and Albert Adomah have seemingly put Villa off their stride and left Steve Bruce scrambling around for a new formula that works.

Alex Neil's Preston side produced a very impressive display but Villa struggled for inspiration and were reliant on a debatable penalty decision and Lewis Grabban's composure in converting it to get anything from the game.

With the Villa Park pitch also cutting up and bare in some places, home advantage might be slightly diluted for Villa in the closing stages of the season and club legend Ian Taylor has given his verdict on last night's game as well as the coming match against Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday.

The Verdict

Villa were flying before and you couldn't see them losing but now they have only picked up one point from the last six available, they need to nip this poor run in the bud before it snowballs.

The trip to Wednesday represents a good opportunity to do just that but they face a squad who will be gearing up for an FA Cup replay against former manager Carlos Carvalhal's Swansea.

Whether that means every player will be trying doubly hard to nail down their place or trying to avoid injuries and suspensions will be absolutely key but Villa do need to win.

Villa fans - what are your thoughts? Let us know in the comments below...