Unai Emery has warned his Aston Villa squad against complacency ahead of their clash with relegation-threatened Tottenham Hotspur. Spurs travel to Villa Park on Sunday afternoon aiming to climb out of the relegation zone, seeking back-to-back league victories for the first time since the start of the season when they beat Burnley and Manchester City.
Villa, meanwhile, will be targeting a fifth consecutive home win in all competitions. However, they suffered a setback in their previous outing, losing to Nottingham Forest in the first leg of their Europa League semi-final.
Emery's Pre-Match Message
Emery’s pre-match programme notes read: “We are so, so excited by our semi-final, we know that today needs laser focus and determination. We will have time to talk about Europe, but today we face a huge challenge that can be a strong step in our race for top five.
“The best energy we can find in these busy weeks is to get results and build confidence. No matter who is playing, what matters is the collective goal. Because now is the time for the team and not to think of individual interest or goal.
“It is the moment to be focused in every single match, put the five senses in every and each action, help each teammate and fight every duel like it would be the last one. We must forget about the future and be fully focused.
Warning About Tottenham
“Tottenham are in a difficult moment, but this means that we cannot allow the table to give us a false impression of how this match is going to be. We know that Roberto is a top manager and will have this team motivated and prepared, and this means not one step backwards for us.
“It is very clear to me that this will be a very, very difficult and dangerous opponent for us, and we must ensure that our focus and our minds are clear of everything but our way and what we need to do.
Call for Unity
“We must equalise and rise above their wishes and mentality. We worked the whole season for nine months, and now it is the crucial time for a good response. We need you, Villa Park, once again, giving your energy and support the players, which we are feeling in each moment. This is so important now, to be together, players and fans. Not time and no space for doubts.”
