Mat Kendrick Column: Warning for Aston Villa duo - don't question O'Neill
WELCOME to Dislocation, Dislocation, Dislocation with Curt-stie and Phil (starring Villa defender Curtis Davies and his agent Phil Sproson).
This week we’ll be identifying what we regard as one of the hottest properties in the country, No.15, Curtis Davies, and driving a hard bargain over what we believe he is worth, despite him falling into a state of disrepair.
Originally purchased for £10 million following a rental agreement 12 months ago, this national treasure has recently been run into the ground, although his present owner is currently spending £25,000 per week on his upkeep.
Having shouldered the burden of excessive wear and tear, he is slightly disjointed in places and is in need of restoration after undergoing recent maintenance work.
In our expert opinion, we estimate the costs should be increased to £50,000 per week to bring him up to the level of other assets in Aston, who have benefited from expensive extensions. Currently, No.15, Curtis Davies is a little flat in a desirable location, who will remain unoccupied for the next four months.
But, with a significant investment from an owner who recognises his vast potential, he could be part of a lucrative high rise development.
On a serious note, Sproson has acted more like an estate agent rather than a football agent by trying to publicly give it the hard sell during the centre-half’s contract wrangle.
Instead of sanctioning a national newspaper story saying Davies could consider his future if he isn’t given a pay-rise, they might as well have plonked a ‘For Sale’ sign next to the defender.
But, although Davies and his representative have gone about their negotiations all wrong by making private information public, I can partly understand their position over the potential new deal.
