Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa has moved swiftly to temper growing excitement around the club's Premier League prospects, insisting it is far too early for title talk despite a remarkable run of form.
Villa's Impressive Run of Form
Unai Emery's side have been in scintillating form, winning seven of their last eight league matches. Their latest victory, a hard-fought 1-0 win over West Midlands rivals Wolverhampton Wanderers at Villa Park on Sunday, was secured by a stunning Boubacar Kamara strike.
That result marked an eighth consecutive home win for Villa and propelled them back into the Premier League's top four. The three points also saw them close the gap to second place to just a single point, especially after Chelsea held leaders Arsenal to a draw.
Konsa's Grounded Perspective
Despite the soaring league position and palpable optimism among supporters, Konsa is adamant the dressing room is keeping a level head. The England international emphasised a strict 'game by game' philosophy being adopted by the squad and manager Unai Emery.
"Yeah, we're in a good place. Taking it game by game, not looking too far ahead," Konsa stated. He reflected on a tough start to the campaign but expressed a long-held belief that the team would find its rhythm. "I remember saying... that I had no doubts that we would get back into a good place and it was only a matter of time."
"The Table Means Nothing" at This Stage
When directly questioned on whether Villa could be considered dark horses for the championship, Konsa was unequivocal in his response. "No, I wouldn't say that. I won’t speak about the title; I don't think we are. Not at all," he said.
He stressed that with only 13 games played, the league standings are largely irrelevant at this juncture. "At this stage, the table means nothing. It’s good we are fourth, but we'll see where we are at the end of the season," Konsa explained, revealing that conversations about a title challenge are simply not happening within the club's walls.
The focus remains firmly on the immediate challenges, with a midweek trip to Brighton & Hove Albion followed by a huge Sunday showdown against league leaders Arsenal at Villa Park.
