By Aston Villa FC

Craig Shakespeare joined VillaTV this week to discuss a range of topics ahead of the 2021/22 Premier League season. 

The majority of the squad have now returned to Bodymoor Heath, with Aston Villa's first pre-season fixture at Walsall now less than a week away.

Training has been gruelling so far for the players, but Shakespeare was pleased to report that the team have responded well. 

"They are quite tired, but that's natural," the Assistant Head Coach explained.

"They have programmes to work to [during the summer] and their natural professionalism means that they come back in good shape. 

"We have been putting them through their paces, it's difficult for them and it's important that they get their recovery time. 

"The idea is to play some matches and to get fit for the start of the season."

Watch the full VillaTV interview to hear Shakespeare's thoughts on the 2020/21 campaign, the young players training with the group, internationals and the season ahead. 

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