Emery hails consistency as Villa battle on all fronts

UNAI Emery hailed the consistency of his key players as they eventually broke down stubborn Southampton at St Mary's Stadium.

- JOHN TOWNLEY

The hosts came into the game with a paltry nine points so far this season, but they kept Emery’s men at bay until sub Ollie Watkins’ goal on 73 minutes opened the flood-gates.

Fellow substitutes Donyell Malen and John McGinn put the match beyond Southampton - the latter after Marco Asensio missed a second spot-kick - as Villa made it four straight Premier League wins.

It left Emery reflecting on the impact of players like Youri Tielemans - who was man of the match - and Morgan Rogers, and how a strong bench is boosting Villa as they chase that all-important top-five spot.

“Some players are showing us their consistency, playing minutes and recovering. It is not easy to play at the level we demand in matches in a row without being injured,” said the boss.

“Youri and Morgan, they are being very important and consistent. I am always analysing if we can take some minutes to rest them, but until now they are being consistent and playing the demands we need.