Aston Villa are riding high with five consecutive wins across all competitions, and manager Unai Emery has been vocal in his support for striker Ollie Watkins ahead of their crucial clash against Brighton. Despite a slow start to the season, Villa are within striking distance of the Premier League summit, just four points adrift. Emery's side are vying for a Champions League spot, a goal that seems increasingly attainable this year.
Emery's unwavering faith in Watkins
Watkins, however, will be eager to make an impact against Brighton, having found the net only once in 19 appearances across all competitions. Emery addressed Watkins' form, stating, "Watkins has my complete confidence. He is always doing his task. Maybe he is feeling under his normal (levels of) confidence because he is not scoring, but he is never giving up on his task. He is always doing positive things for the team and he is very important for us. The goals are coming." Emery also praised Donyell Malen, highlighting his tactical contribution and goal-scoring ability.
Team News and Brighton's Home Form
Villa boasts a positive head-to-head record against Brighton, with three wins in their last five encounters. However, they will be without key players Tyrone Mings and Ross Barkley, with Barkley sidelined for an extended period due to injury. Emery revealed that Barkley's injury is "more than we expected," potentially keeping him out for 8-12 weeks.
Emery acknowledged the challenge posed by Brighton, particularly their strong home form. "How they are performing at home, how they are getting points at home – four victories and two draws – wow, what a match! And they are playing fantastic, and they are performing fantastic." This sets the stage for a potentially thrilling encounter as Villa aims to solidify their top-four ambitions.