'Outstanding' - Pundits praise round-up as Aston Villa beat 2-0 Bologna win in Champions League

Tuesday night provided another evening to celebrate for Aston Villa fans, as they watched their team run out as 2-0 victors against Bologna in the Champions League.

There were several top performers in the game - however, it was Unai Emery who took the lions’ share of the praise for his management of the squad amid a slew of injuries.

After the game, Sky Sports analyst Patrick Rowe said: “A lot has been made of fixture congestion and growing injury concerns across teams - and Aston Villa have been no different to any other in this respect.

“In the last home game against Manchester United, Emery saw Ezri Konsa limp off in the first half and was already without captain [John] McGinn who had picked up an injury back in September.

“His squad looked thin and alarm bells were ringing. But on Tuesday night, Villa showed their strength in numbers. McGinn, the scorer of the first, made his return to the starting line-up and Duran, who was given a start by the Villa boss, doubled it shortly after.

“Ross Barkley's introduction at half-time helped propel Villa forward and long-term absentee Boubacar Kamara also made his first appearance since February. The depth Emery has at his disposal was the deciding factor in this fixture and will be hugely important throughout the campaign.

“The Villa boss stated prior to this game he wanted to win a trophy and cannot waste time at the club - having depth like he called upon here will improve their chances massively.”

Ian Maatsen was also singled out for praise by pundits for his performance - not only did he show off his defensive ability, he also proved to be a nuisance for Bologna’s backline down the left flank.

On Maatsen, former Villa man Gabby Agbonlahor said on TalkSPORT: “He was outstanding, for me. Probably one of the best players on the pitch. He was a nightmare for the right winger - he couldn't get anywhere near him!”