2014 Aston Villa – Christian Benteke #20 Large

The 2013–14 season (often referenced as 2014 for the calendar year conclusion) was a challenging yet defining campaign for Aston Villa, managed by Paul Lambert. Competing in the Premier League, Villa finished 15th, securing survival but enduring a season marked by inconsistency, squad turnover, and a heavy reliance on moments rather than sustained control.

Villa struggled for goals and possession across long stretches, leaning on physicality, counterattacks, and set pieces to grind out results. Their home form at Villa Park provided key points, while away performances were often difficult. In domestic cups, Villa exited early, placing full emphasis on league survival. Despite the turbulence, the season played an important role in shaping the club’s identity during a transitional period focused on youth integration and financial prudence.

The 2013–14 Aston Villa home kit, produced by Macron, stayed true to tradition with a claret body and sky-blue sleeves, complemented by a yellow Dafabet sponsor across the chest. Clean lines, a modern athletic cut, and subtle detailing gave the shirt a contemporary feel while preserving the club’s classic look. Today, it’s remembered as the kit most closely associated with Christian Benteke’s emergence as Villa’s attacking focal point.

2. Player’s Impact – Christian Benteke

The 2013–14 season further established Christian Benteke as Aston Villa’s talisman and one of the Premier League’s most imposing centre-forwards. Following a sensational debut season, Benteke faced heightened expectations while battling periods of injury and heavy defensive attention. Even so, he remained Villa’s primary goal threat and reference point in attack.

Benteke made over 30 league appearances, scoring double-digit Premier League goals and finishing as Villa’s top scorer. His role was clear: operate as a powerful target man capable of holding up play, winning aerial duels, and converting chances under pressure. He combined strength with surprisingly soft touches and intelligent movement, often creating opportunities for teammates by occupying multiple defenders.

Key performances included decisive goals against mid-table rivals and crucial contributions during tight relegation battles. Beyond the numbers, Benteke’s presence dictated Villa’s attacking approach—long balls, early crosses, and quick transitions were all designed to exploit his physical dominance. This season cemented his reputation and directly fueled transfer interest from Europe’s elite, shaping the trajectory of both his career and Villa’s future planning.

3. Full Squad List (Aston Villa – 2013–14 Season)

Manager: Paul Lambert

Goalkeepers:
Brad Guzan, Jed Steer

Defenders:
Ron Vlaar (captain), Nathan Baker, Ciaran Clark, Philippe Senderos, Antonio Luna, Leandro Bacuna, Matthew Lowton, Aly Cissokho

Midfielders:
Ashley Westwood, Fabian Delph, Karim El Ahmadi, Yacouba Sylla, Andreas Weimann, Marc Albrighton, Tonev, Joe Bennett

Forwards:
Christian Benteke, Gabriel Agbonlahor, Libor Kozák, Darren Bent (early season), Aleksandar Tonev (also used wide)