Hi mate, thanks for posting. I've always had a lot of time for Villa, along with Everton. Leeds and Spurs I've always felt we're similar sized clubs with similar fan bases who want their team to do well but don't have the sense of entitlement that some of the "traditionally bigger clubs" fans have.
I'm surprised you rate Milner higher than Delph at centre mid. Milner was a really popular player among City fans, but I and many others thought he was a little bit short technically to play centrally for us. I've watched Delph a few times and always been really impressed with him. Great feet, quick in the legs and in the brain.
I think Milner is the kind of player who looks better in a team playing at a slightly lower standard. A team where he takes extra responsibility and kind of Roy of the Rovers' it a bit. But when he steps up to the higher level, he's found a little bit wanting. Whereas Delph looks the kind of player who can't do it all himself, but rather can play a vital role as part of a well oiled machine playing at a higher level.
You'll have seen a whole lot more of Delph than me, but from what I have seen, he seems to have a great touch, makes quick decisions on the ball and plays sharp incisive passes. Would you say that is accurate? Because when Milner plays in the middle for us he struggled with the technical and decision making aspect. He needed a touch, than a look, then he made his decision of where to pass. He stood out a mile when compared to Yaya and Fernandinho because they know where they are passing it before they've even received the ball.
Whereas I appreciate Milner may have looked better for Villa, I think Delph will look better for City at the level our other players are at. What do you think? Cheers Chap!