Sunday 8 February 2015 16:29, UK
Nolberto Solano believes Aston Villa just need a goal – and a win – to kickstart their season.
The former Villa midfielder, who was top scorer for the club during his one full season at Villa Park 10 years ago, says it is simply a lack of confidence that is causing the chronic goal shortage.
They have not scored in 10 hours 12 minutes of league action - the last league goal coming from Christian Benteke in the 1-1 draw against Manchester United on 20 December.
"They are in a difficult period, of that there is no question," Solano told the Morning View on Sky Sports News HQ. "They are a great club and I had the opportunity to play for them but they have changed a lot in the last five or six years and this season has been very tough for them.
"They have got some great players, they have real quality but Christian Benteke is not the same player as last season because he has had injuries and that can stop your confidence.
'Tough at Arsenal'
"They played quite well against Arsenal even when they lost 5-0, they played quite well in the first 25-30 minutes but it was a difficult game for them, it is always tough to play at Arsenal."
Reflecting on his own time at Villa Park, Solano said: "I had a great time there. When I left Newcastle it was not my decision but I wanted to play football and had a good time there at Villa.
"That's why sometimes you see players moving club because they want to get some game time. It was always my passion to play football."
Former Arsenal and Middlesbrough midfield Ray Parlour believes it is the responsibility of the rest of the team to step up and help the strikers if Villa are to get out of relegation trouble.
Villa are only three points clear of Hull in 18th place and Parlour said: "It is a real concern. The fans are getting a little bit frustrated as well. I think they rely on Benteke too much, you have got to get goals from all over the field, the midfield have to help out with goals.
"They are a little bit deep as a side in my opinion but that is Paul Lambert's decision, but they are in a relegation battle, no question. I'm sure they would take 0-0 against Chelsea now without a doubt."
