Aston Villa's early season form has been underwhelming, leading to concerns about the team's direction after what many hoped would be a continued ascent. The recent goalless draw against Everton at their new Hill Dickinson Stadium has done little to quell those anxieties, extending Villa's winless start to four matches.

Current Performance and Analysis

The stalemate with Everton highlights Villa's struggles in front of goal, as they have yet to find the net in the Premier League this season. This toothless attack has left them hovering just above the relegation zone, with only Midlands rivals Wolves below them in the table. While the defense, led by Tyrone Mings, showed resilience in securing a clean sheet against Everton, the lack of offensive firepower is a significant concern for Unai Emery.

Several factors contribute to Villa's current predicament. The team's intensity and zip, which were hallmarks of their success last season, have been noticeably absent. Opponents have managed to stifle Villa's key players, as evidenced by Everton's effective containment of Jack Grealish, who faced jeers from his former fans. Furthermore, the team's tactical approach has come under scrutiny, with questions raised about the starting XI selection and the lack of pace in the team.

Positives from the Everton Draw

Despite the overall disappointment, there were some positives to glean from the Everton match. Emiliano Martinez's return in goal after his failed move to Manchester United proved crucial, as he made a vital save to deny Michael Keane's header. Martinez's performance earned him high praise and underscored his importance to the team. Unai Emery also lauded the players' commitment, discipline, and organization, viewing it as a crucial first step toward improvement. The defensive effort, particularly in limiting Grealish's influence, also demonstrated Villa's tactical flexibility and willingness to work hard.

Pathways to Revival

To spark a revival, Aston Villa needs to address several key areas. First and foremost, they must find a way to unlock their attacking potential and start scoring goals. This may involve tweaking the tactical setup, giving opportunities to the creative players on the bench like Donyell Malen, Evann Guessand, Harvey Elliott and Jadon Sancho, and finding a way to better integrate new signings into the team.

Emery also needs to address the psychological aspect of the team's struggles. Regaining confidence and rebuilding a winning mentality will be crucial to turning the tide. This could involve fostering a stronger team spirit, instilling a clear sense of purpose, and empowering players to take more risks in the final third.

The upcoming matches will be critical in determining whether Aston Villa can turn their season around. While the draw against Everton may offer a glimmer of hope, the team needs to build on this foundation and start delivering positive results. Otherwise, the early season mediocrity could quickly turn into a full-blown crisis.