Sherwood: Team a work in progress
Aston Villa boss Tim Sherwood has hinted at a turbulent and trying season ahead at Villa Park.
Sherwood spoke of optimism as Villa begin their Capital One Cup campaign against Notts County on Tuesday night.
And he was also confident for the Premier League side's future - "if we can get through this season unscathed".
It is a statement which hints the priority is Premier League survival this term, but Villa have an immediate opportunity to bounce back from Saturday's late loss at Crystal Palace in the League Cup.
"The fans want to win. And I want to win. It's a work in progress," Sherwood told avfc.co.uk.
"If we can get through this season unscathed, it's one hell of a young side and an exciting team for the future."
Sherwood is likely to make changes for County's visit, but knows the League Cup offers his side an opportunity.
"We all know where it takes us - Wembley," added Sherwood, whose side lost May's FA Cup final to Arsenal.
"It will be a tough game. I know their manager Ricardo Moniz very well. He used to be a skills coach at Tottenham.
"They will look to come and play football. It's a good home draw for us and one we are looking forward to.
"It's always difficult on the back of a defeat, especially the way that result against Crystal Palace came.
"We have to take it on the chin and go again."
Adama Traore, who came on to create Villa's goal at Selhurst Park, could start after joining from Barcelona, but Sherwood sought to temper expectations.
"He's not the finished article. But we got a glimmer of what he can produce. It takes your breath away," Sherwood added.
"It was only a cameo but it's a huge step up from Segunda League to the Premier League. I don't think we can expect too much."
Liam Noble will miss the Magpies' trip to Villa Park following his red card at the weekend.
The midfielder became the third Notts player this season to be sent off when he was dismissed in the 87th minute against Accrington on Saturday, earning him a three-match suspension.
It remains to be seen whether new signing Izale McLeod will be available to make his debut. The striker is short of match sharpness having not featured so far this campaign for his previous club Crawley.
Defender Civard Sprockel (groin), midfielder Curtis Thompson (hamstring) and striker Jimmy Spencer (fractured leg) remain unavailable for selection.
Source: PAR
