Aston Villa news latest: Emery sets his eyes on Europe qualification

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Aston Villa news latest

Aston Villa’s comeback since Unai Emery took over as manager has been so dramatic that what appeared to be a relegation fight has now turned into a race to qualify for Europe.

Villa’s 2-1 win over ailing Leicester City on Tuesday moved them up to seventh in the Premier League table, just six points behind third-placed Newcastle United, despite having played two more games.

Aston Villa news latest
Aston Villa news latest: Villa secured a win over Leicester

Villa were in 17th position when former Arsenal manager Emery took over in October, but they have since won 10 of their 16 Premier League games under the Spaniard, amassing 32 points out of the 48 available. Only leaders Arsenal and chasers Manchester City have earned more points in the last ten league games than Villa, and there is a growing feeling that a European spot is within reach.

“Now we can add another step of thinking we can be a candidate to be in a European position, but it is going to be difficult because Brighton (& Hove Albion) and Brentford are playing very well,” said Emery, whose side are above Chelsea and Liverpool. “Chelsea and Liverpool have to be in Europe next year, they will fight for it, but we can have ambition and motivation to try to be a candidate.”

One of the reasons for Villa’s rise has been the form of striker Ollie Watkins, who became the first Premier League player to score in six straight away games since Sergio Aguero for Manchester City between March and August of 2017.

“The striker is very important to me. I spoke with (Watkins) at the beginning about the relationship here,” Emery said.

“I told him that I want the best of you and the way he is doing; practicing, being humble to improve. This is the way.

“For us, Ollie Watkins is very important. He’s not only scoring but his commitment every day trying to add more work, watching his clips. He’s the first defence in our idea, trying to be consistent. He’s working very well with the high pressing.

Aston Villa news latest: Watkins has been in fine form lately

“He’s trying to fight with the defenders. He’s scoring and he’s adding the best quality as a striker – the goal.”

Read also: How to get UEFA license.

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