You're probably right, I guess they would have to factor in the possible increase in value for the outlay, difficult to do so if he wont be tested in Champions League for the foreseeable.
We've bucked many trends the past 5 years. I expect the planning is in place to buck the league form drop off expectation held by the lazy sports observers.
Good all round game and scope to improve - he's in a different formation to what he's been used to and I believe he is adapting well. His Villa goal pretty much summed him up - tenacious, opportunistic and good finisher.