Former fans’ favourite reveals what makes Unai Emery ‘brilliant’ at Aston Villa

Lee Hendrie has credited Unai Emery with making Aston Villa supporters “believe again” after the 5-0 annihilation at Sheffield United.

An emphatic win in South Yorkshire resulted in Villa sticking five past the Blades to keep their Champions League dream alive. Tottenham Hotspur drew earlier in the day - meaning a win for Emery’s men would propel them back into the top four.

Less than 18 months ago, the Spaniard took over a side sitting above the relegation zone on goal difference. Emery has rejuvenated a confidence-bereft squad to have Villa on the cusp of their first European Cup campaign since 1982-83.

The Villans have not competed in the competition while it has been known as the Champions League - with the rebrand taking place a decade later. Speaking to Sky Sports, former midfielder Hendrie hailed Emery for getting “the best” out of his troops while explaining why a top-four finish is so important.

“His attention to detail at the football club (what makes Emery great),” he said. “It’s what he does behind the scenes. He’s brought the best out of the squad. It wasn’t so long ago he was taking over from Steven Gerrard, with a similar squad.

“I just like the way they play. They play that high line, it’s brave, and he has a real attacking force in that forward line. Ollie Watkins has been fantastic. He brought (Moussa) Diaby in, who started the season well.

“He’s utilised the squad when he’s had to. I thought the Europa Conference League might have just seen Villa fall away, they’re in the FA Cup as well, so you feel like he’s setting a platform for next season. That’s why finishing in the top four would be brilliant. He’s made the club believe again.”