 Complete the following phrase:  For the remainder of the 1940s and early 1950s, Massie continued to bring in new players whilst the team regularly had mid-table finishes. One of the more influential signings was Danny Blanchflower in 1951 for 15,000. Villa had a good start to the 195152 season when, after eight games, Villa were second behind Manchester United. This was their best start of the last 19 years, and they eventually finished in sixth place. After a mid-table finish in the 195253 season, the following season, saw the return of Eric Houghton, this time in a managerial capacity. One of his first actions was to introduce 19yearold Peter McParland to the first team. His first season in charge ended with Villa in 13th place. Nevertheless, Houghton had done well to guide a transitional Villa team to a respectable position in the top flight. Under Houghtons stewardship, Villa won the 